In the first Qualifier of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) won by 8 wickets over Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH)securing their berth in the highly anticipated finals of the lucrative league. Conversely, SRH will now face the challenge of competing against the victor of the Eliminator to vie for a spot in the finals.

Opting to bat first, SRH encountered an early setback as their formidable in-form openers (Travis Head and Abhishek Sharma) fell within the first two overs. However, Rahul Tripathi showcased resilience, maintaining a commendable run rate in the initial overs. Despite losing four wickets during the powerplay, Tripathi managed to stabilize the team innings against the spirited Kolkata bowlers. He notched a crucial half-century before an unfortunate run-out abruptly halted his knock. Following his dismissal, Tripathi was visibly emotional as he failed to take his team to a respectable total.

Rahul Tripathi’s unfortunate outing

In the 14th over, KKR star all-rounder Sunil Narine delivered a short ball outside the off-stump, prompting Abdul Samad to cut it behind square on the off-side. Samad initiated a run, unaware that Andre Russellstationed at backward point, had made a diving stop.  Russell quickly retrieved the bowl and threw it to wicketkeeper Rahmanullah Gurbaz, who swiftly removed the bails with Tripathi stranded mid-pitch. The batter, who had amassed 55 runs off 35 balls at that point, appeared crestfallen with the manner of his dismissal.

Here is the video:

Tripathi hides his face in disappointment

The unfortunate dismissal left him feeling disheartened, as it represented a crucial juncture in the game that could have potentially changed the course of action for his team. Tripathi’s unexpected exit from the crease dealt a significant blow to SRH’s aspirations of achieving a total close to 200, leaving him filled with despair and sorrow. The 33-year-old, clearly devastated by the turn of events, was observed sitting on the stairs in a state of disbelief, hiding his face in disappointment following his regrettable run-out.

Also READ: IPL 2024 – Fans mercilessly roast Abdul Samad after Rahul Tripathi’s unfortunate run-out during KKR vs SRH Qualifier 1 clash

Here is how the fans reacted

Fans rallied around Tripathi, expressing their solidarity with him after he encountered an upsetting moment in the game. Soon, social media platforms were filled with posts in support of the Ranchi-born cricketer.

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