CSK vs RR: Sandeep Sharma delivers to Ruturaj Gaikwad despite back out, apologises later

Ruturaj Gaikwad and Sandeep Sharma (Photo Source: Twitter)

The ongoing 17th league fixture of IPL 2023 between Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals witnessed an interesting moment in the first over of the second innings when CSK opener Ruturaj Gaikwad moved away at the very last moment while facing Sandeep Sharma. The veteran Indian pacer wasn’t able to abort his delivery, needing Gaikwad to fend the ball away with his hand.

The in-form Ruturaj Gaikwad, accompanied by Devon Conway, started the chase for the home side after the Yellow Army restricted Rajasthan Royals to a par total on a sticky surface. Sandeep Sharma, who opened the bowling for the visitors in the absence of Trent Boult, was about to deliver his fourth delivery of the match, only for Gaikwad to move away at the very last moment.

Sandeep was already in his delivery stride and was not able to abort his action as the CSK opener used his hand to protect himself from the incoming delivery. The pacer apologised to the batter, who explained that there was some disturbance behind the bowler, making him pull out at the very last moment.

However, the CSK opener’s stay at the crease was eventually ended by Sandeep in his very next over after Gaikwad managed to top-edge the bowler’s second delivery of the second over in search of a boundary. Despite that early blow, the home side made a steady start in the powerplay, thanks to a brisk second-wicket stand between Conway and the in-form Ajinkya Rahane.