NLD vs IRE: Joshua steps off the pitch to play an incredible ramp shot during 1st ODI

Gone are those days when playing horizontal shots was deemed the only appropriate way to score runs. Batsmen nowadays are smashing the ball all over the park with scoops and sweeps becoming an essential aspect of the game. From Kevin Pietersen’s switch hit to AB de Villiers’ ramp shot, fans have been left astonished by many staggering shots in the modern era. One such startling hit was witnessed during the first ODI between Ireland and Netherlands.

The encounter took place at the Sportpark Maarschalkerweerd in Utrecht on Wednesday (June 2). It was a low-scoring game, and the bowlers did most of the talking. Ireland pacer Joshua Little also enjoyed an impressive day at the office, taking three wickets in the clash. However, more than his sensational spell, Little’s antics with the bat hogged the limelight.

Ireland needed ten runs in the final over and well-set batsman Simi Singh got run-out on the first ball. The Dutch side was ecstatic with Ireland needing nine off five balls with only one wicket in hand. While Netherlands’ win looked like a mere formality, Little sprinkled a little more spice in the close contest. He played a scintillating ramp hit and collected a boundary on the third ball.

Joshua Little’s antic hit

Logan van Beek was the bowler in business. Following the popular trend, he went for a slower delivery outside the off-stump. However, Little shuffled across the stumps and spectacularly swept the ball to short fine leg boundary. Notably, the Irishman went so far across that one of his feet was outside the pitch when he executed that astounding hit. While the bowling side couldn’t believe what happened, Little was also amazed by his antic shot.

What an incredible shot by Joshua Little!!! #NEDvIRE pic.twitter.com/xtb1Q6whnr

— mubin (@Bringbackclt2O) June 2, 2021

Unfortunately, the youngster couldn’t take Ireland over the line. He took a single off the next ball, and the equation eventually came down to Ireland needing three off the final delivery. Little again went for a scoop but couldn’t connect this time. As a result, Netherlands won the game by just one run. Tim van der Gugten received the Player of the Match award for his all-round show. The next ODI takes place on June 4, and the Irish side would be determined to settle the scores.