WATCH: Venkatesh Iyer’s maiden Metro Bank One Day Cup 2024 wicket leads Lancashire to thrilling win

Indian-rounder Venkatesh Iyerenduring a difficult start to his career LancashireThey went big in their four-run victory Northamptonshire on Sunday (August 11). His performance was especially important in the last tense moments of the game Metro Bank One Day Cup 2024 game at Northampton.

Early struggles and important contributions

Iyer’s first appearance against Lancashire was uneventful, marked by a wicketless spell and a modest batting return. In the match against Northamptonshire, he managed 15 runs from 17 balls as a middle-order batsman. However, it was his bowling that turned things around for Lancashire when the game reached its climax.

Penalty matters more

Chasing an impressive target of 241, Northamptonshire needed 21 runs from the last two overs with four wickets remaining. Iyer was given the responsibility of taking the penalty, a task that was full of pressure. His first two deliveries were costly, giving away seven runs with a few wides and a boundary. This shaky start could have disrupted the team’s plans, but Iyer’s resilience stood out.

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Key wicket for Ricardo Vasconcelos

The key moment came on the fourth ball of Iyer’s over, when he bowled it out Ricardo Vasconcelos. Iyer, who bowls the ball around the wicket, directs a short delivery to Vasconcelos’ left body. The purpose was clear; crowding the batter for space and forcing misjudgments. Vasconcelos tried to play a wide shot, shuffling to his right to create space. He intended to lift the ball high but failed to connect properly. Instead, his shot was deflected high, where the long-time striker held onto the ball comfortably, scoring a vital breakthrough.

Here is the video:

☝️🇮🇳 @venkateshiyar

12 to defend in the last over – Green to throw it…

🌹 #RedRoseTogether pic.twitter.com/h843M9QDBc

– Lancashire Cricket (@lancscricket) August 11, 2024

Finishing touch and victory for Lancashire

Iyer finished his over by restricting Northamptonshire to one run in the last two balls, finishing with 1/40 runs from his eight overs. This strong finish set the stage Chris Greenwho bowled a stunning final over to secure 12 runs to spare, sealing a hard-fought four-run victory for Lancashire. Iyer’s over-the-top and crucial wicket played a vital role in Lancashire’s success, marking a major change in his style of play for the team.

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