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Explained: How Ajaz Patel Used His Magic Trick To Deceive Both Virat Kohli And Shubman Gill
Explained: How Ajaz Patel Used His Magic Trick To Deceive Both Virat Kohli And Shubman Gill
The magic trick that deceived Kohli and Gill
Ajaz Patel, the New Zealand spinner, has revealed the secret behind his magical delivery that deceived both Virat Kohli and Shubman Gill during the second Test in Mumbai.
Patel's delivery, which has been dubbed the “magic ball,” was a classical off-break that turned sharply away from the right-handers, beating both their bats and crashing into the stumps.
The set-up
Patel had been bowling a consistent line and length throughout the over, and had already beaten Kohli's outside edge a couple of times.
The “magic ball” was the fourth delivery of the over, and Patel knew he had to produce something special to get Kohli out.
The delivery
Patel bowled the “magic ball” with a slightly wider line than usual, and gave it a little more air.
The ball pitched on a good length, just outside Kohli's off stump, and turned sharply away from the batsman.
Kohli, who was expecting the ball to turn towards him, was completely deceived and was bowled through the gate.
The aftermath
Kohli's wicket was a huge blow to India, and Patel went on to take another wicket in the over, dismissing Shubman Gill for a duck.
Patel's “magic ball” was one of the highlights of the match, and it showcased his skill as a spinner.