It took a replay, a tense wait at the ropes for Ash Gardner and a remarkable piece of fielding from New Zealand’s all-conquering opener Suzie Bates, but Gardner had to eventually walk.
With Gardner on 10 and Australia cruising at 3-108 with just under six overs to go, Bates would complete Act I of her cricketing spectacular during Australia’s third game of the Women’s World T20.
Looking to attack Leigh Kasperek’s medium pacers, Gardner danced down the pitch – a risky enough manoeuvre considering the spate of penalties during the tournament – and lofted Kasperek’s offering to the right of long on.
That’s where the highlight reel kicks in.
The ball goes straight through Bates’ fingers and bounces off the face.
Then off her chest.
Then Bates loses her balance and trips over.
From hereon in, this is hanging with it territory that’s previously been the sole dominion of a Mr M. Taylor.
Having fallen backwards, Bates fumbles the ball once.
And holds it.
Watch the action unfold below.
With the regather hidden from view, it took a video replay to reveal the genius of the play.
Bates didn’t do too bad with the blade, either. With wickets falling around her, Bates struck 48 off 42, threatening to bring the Kiwis back into contention before falling LBW to Gardner.
Australia will play their final group game against India on Saturday before moving on to the semi finals.