He’s done it again.
New Zealand all-rounder Glenn Phillips has produced another stunning catch during Sunday’s Champions Trophy final against India, adding to his impressive fielding resume.
Chasing a 252-run target for victory, India was cruising at 0-105 in the 19th over when opener Shubman Gill, unbeaten on 31 at the time, slapped Black Caps captain Mitchell Santner towards cover.
The ball was seemingly destined for the boundary rope before Phillips lunged into the air with an outstretched arm — and with his legs suspended in the air, it stuck. The 28-year-old, who has a background in gymnastics, could only laugh in disbelief after landing back on the turf.
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“Sometimes you wonder if he’s a cricketer or a gymnast,” former Indian coach Ravi Shastri said in commentary.
World Cup champion Aaron Finch responded: “It’s just unbelievable athleticism.”
Former New Zealand wicketkeeper Ian Smith continued: “He’s been absolutely brilliant … he’s been one of the talking points of the tournament.
“That is something special … what a cracker.”
Phillips had already pouched two remarkable catches during the Champions Trophy, removing Indian superstar Virat Kohli and Pakistan captain Mohammed Rizwan during the group stage, both of which were one-handed efforts at backward point.
“I’ve always loved fielding since the beginning of playing,” Phillips told BBC this week.
“The reactionary catches like the dives, there’s a big element of luck involved.
“I don’t train those at all purely because if you train them and you get injured, then what’s the point? There’s no heroes at training.
“I’ve taken a few so you build up a bit of belief that if it’s in that area, you have a chance.
“I’ve dropped plenty of them as well but, ultimately, if you push yourself to the limit, you’re going to find where it is.”
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