Discover the astonishing journey of Mitchell Santner, the World Cup hero, as he scores an unbelievable 13 runs in just 1 ball and achieves a spectacular 5-wicket haul against the Netherlands. Dive into the thrilling moments that define cricket greatness.
In a stunning display of cricket prowess, Mitchell Santner, the star performer for the Blackcaps, left the world in awe with an incredible all-round show that mirrored the legendary Yuvraj Singh’s World Cup achievement. In a match against the Netherlands, Santner achieved the unthinkable, scoring 13 runs in just one ball. This remarkable feat took place during the World Cup in India, where New Zealand’s injury-plagued team defied the odds to secure their place in the semi-finals.
Despite their consistent performance in ICC competitions across formats over the past decade, New Zealand was not considered a top contender for the World Cup in India. With a side plagued by injuries and a second-place finish in the previous World Cup, their chances seemed slim. However, after two impressive wins in the tournament, New Zealand now comfortably sits atop the points table, showcasing their dominance and chase rate.
Their journey began with a thrilling victory over the reigning champions, England, in the tournament opener, avenging their heartbreaking loss in the 2019 World Cup final. Following this triumph, they took on the Netherlands in a match that added more feathers to their cap.
The Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium witnessed Mitchell Santner’s masterclass as he displayed a clinical all-round performance, reminiscent of Yuvraj Singh’s historic World Cup feat. However, the highlight of Santner’s performance came with the bat, where he achieved the impossible.
It all unfolded in the final legal delivery of New Zealand’s innings in Hyderabad. Facing Netherlands’ Bas de Leede, Santner smashed a low full toss outside off for a six over deep midwicket. However, what made this moment even more incredible was that the delivery was deemed a no-ball. Bas de Leede had to bowl again, but Santner’s composure was unwavering as he comfortably cleared the long-on boundary for another six. De Leede was visibly frustrated after conceding 21 runs in the over, with Santner hitting a boundary on the very first ball.
Santner’s incredible feat continued as he finished with an unbeaten 36 off just 17 balls, helping New Zealand set a formidable target of 323.
Later in the match, Santner shone with the ball as well. Despite being hit for 36 runs in his initial five overs for two wickets, he staged a remarkable comeback, taking crucial wickets of Colin Ackermann and Scott Edwards in consecutive overs. His final figures stood at an impressive five for 59, making him the second-best bowling performer for New Zealand in India.
With this five-wicket haul, Santner joined an exclusive list of left-arm spinners who have achieved this feat in a World Cup. He followed in the footsteps of Bangladesh’s Shakib Al Hasan (5/29 against Afghanistan in 2019) and the legendary Yuvraj Singh (5/31 against Ireland in 2011). Santner also joined the list of World Cup all-rounders who recorded a five-wicket haul and scored 30 or more runs in the same match. Yuvraj Singh had accomplished this feat against Ireland, scoring an unbeaten innings.
Mitchell Santner’s extraordinary performance has cemented his place as a World Cup hero, drawing parallels to some of the game’s greatest legends. New Zealand’s unexpected rise in the tournament has been nothing short of spectacular, and Santner’s contributions have played a pivotal role in their success.
In conclusion, Mitchell Santner’s remarkable 13 runs in 1 ball and his five-wicket haul against the Netherlands have etched his name in World Cup history. His incredible display of skill and composure on the field has made him a true cricketing hero.