WATCH | Hardik Pandya's nasty collision with Kane Williamson
New Zealand’s innings in the deciding ODI had a promising start with Kane Williamson looking settled at his end. India knew his wicket’s importance and it was reflected in a lightning-fast attempt by Hardik Pandya where both collided dangerously. Luckily, both remained unscathed after the incident.
New Zealand looked unfazed by the massive total in the deciding ODI in Kanpur as Colin Munro and Kane Williamson kicked off to a brilliant start bringing up the visitor’s 150-mark by the 25 over. With Indian bowlers failing to create any kind of early pressure, Virat Kohli and company had to make it up with their fielding.
Hardik Pandya’s attempt was a result of it. Williamson had pushed the ball to mid-on off an Axar Patel delivery and embarked on a blind run. Pandya, who is one of India’s fitter fielders, charged in and missed the direct hit before crashing on to the ground. Williamson, whose helmet took the hit of the throw, had his head down and didn’t see Pandya lying on his path. And in the process, Williamson's boot-spike landed onto Hardik's little finger.
Both the players made up with a friendly gesture immediately but Pandya’s finger looked a concern. What sweetened the pain was Williamson’s dismissal in the immediate next over off a Yuzvendra Chahal’s delivery, when an ugly slog landed safely into Dhoni’s hands. His wicket reduced the Kiwis to 168-3 in the 29 over.