Jitesh Sharma, the wicketkeeper-batter for Punjab Kings (PBKS), found himself on the receiving end of a barrage of online abuse after the match against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL) season.
In a thrilling match at the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium on Wednesday, May 1st, the Punjab Kings clinched a seven-wicket victory over the Chennai Super Kings. Jitesh Sharma, although not getting a chance to bat, played a crucial role in Punjab’s win by running out Dhoni during CSK’s batting innings.
MS Dhoni’s impressive streak of avoiding dismissal in the ongoing IPL 2024 came to an end on the final ball of the innings. Dhoni took a risky second run, but a quick recovery by Harshal Patel and a precise throw from short third man led to his run-out. Despite scoring 14 runs off 11 balls, including a boundary and a six, the former CSK skipper was dismissed. The Ruturaj Gaikwad-led team posted a below-par total of 162 runs in their allotted 20 overs.
Dhoni’s run-out sparked disappointment among his dedicated fans. Some expressed frustration, while others directed their ire towards Jitesh Sharma for his role in the dismissal. The backlash highlighted the disappointment felt by fans witnessing Dhoni’s first dismissal in the tournament.
“It’s good that you didn’t get selected in the World Cup, you made Thala run out, what difference does one run make?” a user wrote on Instagram.
“You should’ve understood, buddy, people watch matches for him. How bad we must be feeling, you got him run out, and moreover, his leg is injured. Didn’t expect this from you, buddy,” another user remarked.
Sam Curran’s squad pulled off an impressive chase, reaching the target of 163 runs in just 17.5 overs with seven wickets remaining. Jonny Bairstow made a solid 46 off 30 balls, while Rilee Rossouw contributed 43 runs off 23 balls. This victory propelled PBKS to the seventh spot in the points table, accumulating eight points, while CSK maintained their fourth position with 10 points.
Despite the loss, Dhoni showcased his usual finesse and power by adding 14 runs off 11 balls. However, Chennai Super Kings fell short, managing only 162 runs. Punjab Kings, on the contrary, comfortably chased down the target, securing the win with two overs to spare.
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