[Watch] Quinton de Kock executes a brilliant direct hit to send Axar Patel back in IND vs SA 2024 T20 World Cup Final 

South Africa wicketkeeper Quinton de Kock capitalized on Axar Patel's lack of awareness to execute a stunning direct hit from distance in the ongoing 2024 T20 World Cup final. The all-rounder was caught short of the crease and had to depart after scoring a vital 47 runs at the Kensington Oval in Barbados on Saturday, June 29.

Team India garnered momentum in the middle overs through the partnership between Virat Kohli and Axar Patel. The all-rounder had to play the aggressor's role with Kohli anchoring the innings from the other end.

The left-handed batter switched gears after the drinks break, scoring a glorious six against Kagiso Rabada to kickstart the 14th over of the innings. The third ball of the over saw Kohli miss a delivery on his body. The ball trickled down in the direction of Quinton de Kock, and Axar Patel made it halfway down the pitch in the hope of stealing a quick single.

However, the experienced wicketkeeper was quick in collecting the ball and instantly threw it with his weak hand to the vacant non-striker's end. Quinton de Kock only had the stumps to aim at as Rabada was well off the crease in his follow-through.

Axar Patel did not expect the throw from the wicket-keeper and hesitated in no man's land before deciding to make his way back to the crease. The direct hit was on point as Axar's dragged bat was well short.

Have a look at the brilliant piece of fielding right here:

Axar Patel's crucial knock included one boundary and four sixes at a strike rate of 151.61.

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Team India trying to finish on a high in the death overs after Axar Patel's departure

The Men in Blue were reduced to 106/4 in the 14th over after Axar Patel departed to the pavilion. Shivam Dube was the next man in as they were in desperate need of a final push to bolster the score.

As of writing, India are placed at 134/4 after 17 overs, with Virat Kohli reaching his first fifty of the tournament. With spin out of the way entirely, the Proteas will have a go at the Indian assault with their pacers.