In cricket, physical prowess and technical skills often hog the limelight. Fans remember towering sixes, hat-tricks, or superhuman catches. But amid all this action, what often slips under the radar are the subtle moments that reflect a player’s mental sharpness — a presence of mind that alters the game’s trajectory in a flash.
Presence of mind in cricket is about making the right decision in a fraction of a second, like pulling off an unexpected run-out, sensing hesitation for a review, or even acting on gut instinct in high-pressure situations. These moments require more than just skill; they require awareness, anticipation, and nerves of steel.
Especially in high-octane leagues like the IPL, where every run and wicket counts, such moments can turn potential losses into legendary victories. Let’s explore 5 remarkable instances where players displayed exceptional presence of mind that changed the course of the game, proving once again that cricket is as much a mental game as it is physical.
5. Ben Stokes’ Boundary Save Turned Catch (IPL 2017)
Match: Rising Pune Supergiant vs. Gujarat Lions
Moment: A full-blooded shot raced toward the boundary. Ben Stokes ran full tilt, caught the ball inches from the rope, and, realising he was falling over, tossed it up before stepping out. He re-entered the field and completed the catch.
Impact: This moment didn’t just remove a well-set batsman but lifted RPS’s fielding standards and morale — a fine example of awareness and athleticism.
4. Kieron Pollard’s Fake Throw to Distract Batsmen (IPL 2019)
Match: Mumbai Indians vs. Chennai Super Kings
Moment: In a clever move, Pollard pretended to throw to the bowler’s end but held onto the ball. The non-striker, confused by the fake, wandered out of his crease. Pollard quickly turned and effected the run-out.
Impact: CSK lost a crucial wicket during the chase. While controversial, it showcased how mind games and quick thinking can influence high-stakes situations.
3. Rohit Sharma’s DRS Call to Dismiss AB de Villiers (IPL 2017)
Match: Mumbai Indians vs. Royal Challengers Bangalore
Moment: AB was wrongly given not out on an LBW appeal. Rohit, from slip, convinced the bowler and keeper to go for the review, even though they hesitated. DRS showed three reds.
Impact: AB’s early dismissal stopped RCB’s momentum. Rohit’s sharp observation flipped the game, showing how mental sharpness can rival even a power-packed innings.
2. Ravindra Jadeja’s Direct Hit to Dismiss KL Rahul (IPL 2021)
Match: CSK vs. PBKS
Moment: Rahul looked set at the crease, eyeing a big finish. When a slight miscommunication occurred, Jadeja, patrolling point, pounced on the ball and threw down the stumps with a rocket-like direct hit.
Impact: Rahul’s wicket derailed PBKS’s innings, and CSK comfortably chased the modest target. Jadeja’s presence of mind in recognising hesitation cost PBKS dearly.
1. MS Dhoni’s Run-Out of Mustafizur Rahman (IPL 2016)
Match: Rising Pune Supergiant vs. Sunrisers Hyderabad
Moment: In a tense finish, SRH’s Mustafizur strayed far off the crease after completing a run. Dhoni, ever-alert behind the stumps, threw down the stumps without hesitation. The appeal looked casual, but the replays showed Mustafizur hadn’t grounded his bat.
Impact: The run-out reduced SRH to 117/8, snatching momentum in Pune’s favour. A classic Dhoni moment where calm meets killer instinct.
Stats Table
| Player | Match | Season | Moment Type | Impact on Match |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MS Dhoni | RPS vs. SRH | 2016 | Smart Run-Out | Dismissed tail-ender, broke SRH’s momentum |
| Ravindra Jadeja | CSK vs. PBKS | 2021 | Direct Hit Run-Out | Crucial wicket of KL Rahul, PBKS innings collapsed |
| Rohit Sharma | MI vs. RCB | 2017 | DRS Review Call | AB de Villiers was dismissed early, halting the score |
| Kieron Pollard | MI vs. CSK | 2019 | Fake Throw Tactic | Run-out due to deception, changed chase dynamics |
| Ben Stokes | RPS vs. GL | 2017 | Boundary Save & Catch | AB de Villiers was dismissed early, halting the score |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Why is the presence of mind so important in the IPL?
A: The IPL is a high-pressure tournament where matches are often decided in the final over or even the last ball. A moment of brilliance — like a quick run-out, smart review, or deceptive fielding — can turn the tide, making presence of mind a game-changer.
Q2. Which IPL player is most famous for clutch decision-making?
A: MS Dhoni is widely regarded as the master of presence of mind in IPL history. His ability to remain calm under pressure and pull off unexpected game-changing moves has led the Chennai Super Kings to multiple titles.
Q3. Have there been any controversial moments involving the presence of mind?
A: Yes, one notable instance is Kieron Pollard’s fake throw-in IPL 2019 against CSK. While within the rules, it sparked debate among fans and pundits. It showed how clever tactics can sometimes blur the line between smart play and gamesmanship.
Q4. Do IPL teams train for such mental scenarios?
A: Absolutely. Franchises use simulation drills to replicate pressure situations. Teams also rely on analytics and match footage to prepare players mentally, ensuring they’re ready to make smart decisions in crunch moments.
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