Kohli Sets the Tone With a Stunning Reflex Catch
After two lackluster fielding displays in the opening ODIs, India bounced back brilliantly in the third ODI against Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Saturday, October 25. Leading the charge was Virat Kohli, who showed why he remains one of the sharpest fielders in world cricket.
Kohli’s moment came early in the day when he reacted with lightning reflexes to dismiss the in-form Matthew Short, setting the tone for India’s fielding intensity. His energy and precision in the field gave the Men in Blue a much-needed boost, inspiring teammates to follow his lead.
Shreyas Iyer Produces a ‘Catch of 2025’ Contender
If Kohli’s effort lifted the team’s spirits, Shreyas Iyer took things to another level with a breathtaking effort that could easily be dubbed the Catch of 2025.
The moment arrived 11 overs after Kohli’s brilliance. Facing Harshit Rana, Alex Carey attempted to guide a delivery away from his body. For a brief moment, it seemed the ball would race safely into the vacant point region. But Iyer, stationed deeper, sprinted across the field at full speed, diving full-length to complete a sensational catch that stunned players and fans alike.
Unfortunately, the heroic effort came at a cost. Iyer landed awkwardly on his ribs and was visibly in pain. Kuldeep Yadav immediately signaled for medical assistance as Iyer clutched his side, grimacing. Moments later, he walked off the field holding his hip and covering his face in discomfort.
While India’s medical team is yet to confirm the extent of the injury or whether Iyer will be fit to bat in the run chase, his effort proved crucial. The dismissal of Carey left Australia struggling at 183/4, and India capitalized to reduce them further to 198/6 within a few overs.
