Rohit Sharma Catch Drop, Axar Patel hat Trick Denial Video | Axar Patel’s Near Hat-Trick and Rohit Sharma’s Apology

In a dramatic ICC Champions Trophy 2025 group-stage clash at the Dubai International Stadium, India's left-arm spinner Axar Patel came agonizingly close to securing a hat-trick, only for captain Rohit Sharma to drop the decisive catch. The moment, which could have been one of the most memorable of the tournament, instead turned into an episode of frustration and camaraderie, as Rohit immediately acknowledged his mistake and apologized to Axar with folded hands. Despite this setback, India dominated the match, securing a convincing six-wicket win over Bangladesh.

Axar Patel’s Game-Changing Over

Bangladesh, after opting to bat first, found themselves in a precarious position early in the innings. Struggling at 35 for 3, they desperately needed stability, but Axar Patel had other plans. Introduced into the attack in the ninth over, he made an instant impact with his second delivery, luring Tanzid Hasan into edging the ball to KL Rahul behind the stumps. With the very next ball, he dismissed veteran Mushfiqur Rahim in an identical fashion, setting the stage for a potential hat-trick.

Tanzid ☝️
Mushfiqur☝️
Hattrick... Well, almost! ????

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As Jaker Ali walked in to face the crucial third delivery, the tension in the stadium was palpable. Axar, sensing the opportunity, bowled a beautifully tossed-up delivery, which found the outside edge of Jaker’s bat. The ball flew towards first slip, where Rohit Sharma was positioned to complete what should have been a straightforward catch. However, to the disbelief of the Indian camp, Rohit spilled it, squandering Axar’s chance at a historic hat-trick.

Rohit Sharma’s Reaction and Apology

Rohit’s immediate frustration was evident as he slapped the ground in disappointment. But in a moment that showcased the sportsmanship and camaraderie within the Indian team, he quickly walked over to Axar and offered a heartfelt apology with folded hands. The gesture, though light-hearted, highlighted the mutual respect and understanding between teammates in high-pressure situations.

Speaking after the match, Axar reflected on the missed opportunity, expressing a mix of emotions. "A lot was happening in that over. First, I wasn’t sure about the first wicket, but KL was confident, and we got it. Then the second ball, another edge, and suddenly, I was on a hat-trick. When I saw the third one going to first slip, I started celebrating, only to realize that the catch had gone down. It was one of those moments where you don’t know whether to be happy or disappointed."

Rohit, known for his safe hands in the slips, took full responsibility for the dropped catch. "That was an easy one, and I should have taken it. I have set a high standard for myself in the slips, and that was disappointing. But these things happen. Axar bowled brilliantly, and I’ll make it up to him. Maybe I’ll take him out for dinner tomorrow," he said with a smile, lightening the mood.

India’s Commanding Victory Over Bangladesh

Despite the missed hat-trick opportunity, India remained firmly in control of the match. Axar, alongside the pace duo of Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj, ensured that Bangladesh was in deep trouble at 35 for 5. However, a remarkable fightback from Towhid Hridoy and Jaker Ali saw Bangladesh post a respectable total of 228. Hridoy’s superb 100 and Jaker’s supporting 68 helped their side recover from the early collapse.

In response, India chased down the target comfortably, thanks to a magnificent unbeaten century from Shubman Gill. His 101* anchored the innings, with Rohit Sharma contributing a crucial 41, during which he surpassed the milestone of 11,000 ODI runs. India reached the target with 21 balls to spare, marking a strong start to their Champions Trophy campaign.

Looking Ahead – India vs Pakistan Awaits

With this victory, India has built momentum heading into their high-stakes clash against arch-rivals Pakistan. The team will be keen to maintain their winning run and rectify minor lapses, such as fielding errors, before the crucial encounter. Bangladesh, on the other hand, will look to bounce back and reassess their strategy as they prepare to face New Zealand.

Axar Patel’s near hat-trick and Rohit Sharma’s missed catch might have been the talking points of the match, but India’s overall performance underlined their dominance. The moment also served as a reminder of the unpredictability of cricket, where even the most experienced players can falter, and the spirit of sportsmanship remains paramount.