India handed a thumping defeat to England in the second semifinal of the ongoing ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024 and are set to play against South Africa in the final of the tournament on June 29. After the semifinal victory, the Indian cricket team upheld their tradition of awarding the 'Best Fielder' medal. The Indian players and support staff gathered in the dressing room, where fielding coach T Dilip announced the 'Best Fielder' award and there was a special guest to do the honours.
Former Indian cricketer Dinesh Karthik presented the medal, receiving a warm welcome from the team as he entered their dressing room. Karthik even cracked a joke that had everyone laughing, directed at fielding coach T Dilip. Karthik humorously remarked that legendary players like Vivian Richards had previously awarded the medal. He joked that the ceremony had been downgraded by inviting him and suggested they should invite aliens or UFOs next time to present the medals.
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Watch The Video Of 'Best Fielder' Ceremony Here
Dinesh Karthik Lauds Rishabh Pant's Remarkable Cricket Comeback
Karthik awarded the medal to Rishabh Pant and praised the wicketkeeper-batter. He highlighted Pant's remarkable journey, noting the challenges he faced a year ago after his horrible car accident and how few expected him to return to the sport so soon. Karthik commended Pant for his impressive performance and the joy he has brought to millions by being on the field.
"First of all, I feel Dilip had set up such a high standard. Who was given these awards? Sachin, Vivian Richards, Buggy Cam, Spider Cam. I think you've downgraded by calling me here for the award. The only thing left was a UFO and aliens, everybody else had handed this award. So, I mean, from where do I start? You guys have done phenomenally well to be here. So, congratulations," Karthik said.
"As I said, there are many stories in sport, and there are not many better than the person I'm going to be giving it to. What he's gone through a year ago, I don't think six months ago we expected him to be in this team. Not many would have expected him to play the sport this early, but for him to come out here and play the way he's done, starting in the IPL and continuing as he has, I think we are all very happy for him. He has made millions happy just by being on the field. Thank you. Good luck,” Karthik added further.
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It was a complete performance by the Men in Blue in both bowling and fielding as they defended a total of 171 runs. The spin duo of Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav claimed six wickets, while Jasprit Bumrah added two more to his tally. The fielders were also sharp, producing two crucial run-outs.