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The India National Cricket Team finally managed to break New Zealand National Cricket Team's dangerous partnership as Rohit Sharma produced a brilliant diving catch to send Finn Allen packing in the fourth ODI at Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui on Friday (November 13).
Just when Allen was looking dangerous and threatening the Indian attack, Rohit stepped up with a sensational effort in the field. His efforts helped India end the dangerous 90-run partnership between Allen and Will Young (125) for the fourth wicket.
Rohit Sharma takes stunning diving catch to dismiss Finn Allen in 4th IND vs NZ ODI
The breakthrough came through Axar Patel, who got the better of Finn Allen with a well-directed delivery before Rohit Sharma completed a stunning catch at short cover in the fourth ODI between India and New Zealand at Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui.
Read Also: Rohit Sharma, Ishan Kishan gift Will Young 2 lifelines, Auqib Nabi left fuming after double blow.
Axar bowled a good-length delivery outside off stump. Allen went onto his back foot and attempted to punch the ball through the off-side region. However, the New Zealand batter failed to keep the shot along the ground, giving India a valuable opportunity to break the partnership.
Rohit, who was fielding at short cover, reacted quickly and judged the trajectory perfectly. The former Indian captain moved towards his right and completed an excellent diving catch.
Although one hand came off the ball as he landed on the ground, Rohit managed to hold on and ensure Allen’s exit. It was a terrific fielding from Rohit, who made no mistake this time after previously dropping a straightforward catch off Auqib Nabi's bowling.
Rohit Sharma and Axar Patel celebrate as Finn Allen smashes bat in anger
Finn Allen was visibly frustrated with himself after losing his wicket. The New Zealand opener punched his bat in disappointment and walked back towards the dressing room with his eyes closed, as he had missed an opportunity to play a big knock for his team against India.
He scored 41 runs off 30 deliveries with the help of five boundaries and two sixes. His aggressive approach had put pressure on the Indian bowlers, as Axar Patel was delighted with the breakthrough and immediately went towards Rohit Sharma to celebrate the wicket.
The left-arm spinner gave the former Indian captain a hug, acknowledging his excellent effort in the field. Rohit made amends with a spectacular catch after making a shocking error off Nabi's bowling.
Read Also: Gurnoor Brar gets into heated exchange with Tim Seifert, Virat Kohli intervenes in 4th ODI.
39 on paper, 19 in the field! 🤌 Some things only get better with age. Exhibit A: Rohit Sharma. 😍 Watch the HERO VIDA India Tour of New Zealand 4th ODI LIVE NOW on Sony Sports Network TV channels, Sony Vizha & Sony LIV. #SonySportsNetwork #SonyVizha #SonyLIV #NZvIND https://t.co/Uy4xXzK4Vv
— Sony Sports Network (@SonySportsNetwk) November 13, 2026
Rohit Sharma faces must-deliver situation in New Zealand ODIs
Meanwhile, Rohit Sharma has struggled to find his form with the bat in the ongoing five-match ODI series in New Zealand. The right-handed batter has so far managed just 23 runs in the first two matches. The third ODI was washed out without a ball being bowled.
So, Rohit has now limited opportunities to make an impact. He needs to provide better performances to be in contention for the selection as questions are already being asked about his place in India’s squad for the ICC ODI World Cup 2026.
Now, all eyes will be on Rohit when India returns for a chase in Mount Maunganui.
