Michael Pepper’s unbalanced throw in The Hundred 2024 leaves Alex Hales short of the crease

The Hundred 2024 is full of breathtaking cricket matches that captivate viewers every day. There was no exception during the Trent Rockets and London Spirit’s 83rd delivery of Match 20 on Wednesday.

Nathan Ellis was charging in, with Joe Root and Alex Hales positioned at the crease. Hales, who was on 68 off 42 deliveries and determined to hold onto strike as the set batter in the middle, urgently motioned for a single as the pacer produced one of his trademark slower deliveries from the back of the hand. Root had already moved away from the leg stump. Then he dashed to the striker’s end, causing wicketkeeper-battler Michael Pepper to produce a play that was quite commendable for several reasons.

Watch the run-out here:

A direct hit run-out! 🎯

This is pinpoint precision from Michael Pepper to remove the dangerous Alex Hales! 😮#TheHundred | #RoadToTheEliminator pic.twitter.com/fLehLaMxP8

— The Hundred (@thehundred) August 7, 2024

In addition to collecting the ball neatly right in front of him, Michael Pepper also performed an off-balance throw with his knees firmly planted in the ground in the direction of the stumps.

It was even more ridiculous how fast and accurate he could throw at, especially because he was still wearing the gloves from his throwing hand. The Trent Bridge big screen confirmed that Hales had been declared out, just short of his ground.

In contrast, Pepper did not have a big influence in the run-chase, making just two runs before getting out on a lofted shot to backward point. This made matters worse for the 26-year-old, whose lacklustre performance with the bat continued throughout this season.

Also Read: Watch: In the commentary box of The Hundred 2024, Kieron Pollard’s six nearly eliminates Kumar Sangakkara

Rashid Khan’s outstanding effort, which included a four-wicket haul to deal the Spirit a crushing blow and their fourth loss in five games, was primarily responsible for the Spirit’s eventual 22-run deficit.