IPL 2018: Watch - Sanju Samson Takes Stunning Diving Catch to Dismiss Hardik Pandya

There are a lot of reasons behind the meteoric rise of Twenty20 cricket in a short span of time. The format not only saves the fans a lot of time but also gives them a lot of entertainment.

The slam-bang form of the game has become hugely popular among the fans for its exciting nature. Well, another aspect that might have played a role in the format’s success is fielding.

Every run saved is a run scored in the shortest format of the game. Not surprisingly, the fielders take every possible measure to stop the runs.

From leaping on boundary ropes to juggling, the players have taken the fielding to a different level altogether in recent years.

Well, something similar was witnessed in the ongoing game between hosts Mumbai Indians (MI) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium on Sunday (May 13) night.

Quick Read: IPL 2018: Mahendra Singh Dhoni Lavishes Praise on Rayudu and Watson

On the penultimate delivery of Mumbai’s innings, Samson took arguably the catch of the season to send back Hardik Pandya.

England star Ben Stokes bowled a full delivery which angled in. Looking to hit it for a maximum, Pandya whipped the ball towards the mid-wicket region.

The shot did not have enough power to clear the ropes but it was looking primed to go for a four.

However, Samson had some other ideas. He came charging in from his right and upon seeing that the ball was well out of his reach, he made a full-length dive to take an absolute stunner while still being airborne.

Earlier, Visitors Rajasthan won the toss and opted to field first. Rohit Sharma-led reigning champions post 168 for six in 20 overs.

Windies opening batsman Evin Lewis was the top-scorer with 42-ball 60. His innings was laced with four boundaries and as many sixes.

For Royals, Jofra Archer was the pick of the bowlers with two for 16 in four overs.

Here is a clip of that stunner pouched by acrobatic Sanju Samson:

https://t.co/ErLgjbfffA

— VINEET SINGH (@amit9761592734) May 13, 2018

Also read: IPL 2018: KXIP Skipper Ravichandran Ashwin Heaps Praise on Aaron Finch