Despite the excruciating pain, van der Merwe chose to remain on the field, getting his finger relocated by the physio before returning to his bowling mark.
The incident occurred during the 16th over of the Essex innings when van der Merwe bowled a low full toss to Matt Critchley. The batsman struck the ball down the ground, straight towards the bowler.
Upon impact with van der Merwe’s fingers, he immediately leaped in agony, rushing towards the physio while pointing at his dislocated finger.
Roelof van der Merwe is an absolute trooper: dislocates his finger brilliantly stopping a ball, gets it put back in place, and sprints back to bowl! 😎
(Viewing not advised for the squeamish)#Blast23 pic.twitter.com/Z7naGZV76p
— Vitality Blast (@VitalityBlast) June 19, 2023
“Ouch!! I think he’s dislocated his finger. Nasty blow, just don’t look at it,” commented the broadcaster, capturing the painful moment.
The physio swiftly initiated the treatment, skillfully relocating van der Merwe’s finger. The determined bowler wasted no time and quickly returned to his bowling mark, ready for his next delivery.
The match continued with Essex setting an imposing target of 186 runs in their allotted 20 overs, after being asked to bat first. Despite the top-order faltering, Robin Das and Paul Walter orchestrated a remarkable partnership, amassing 94 runs for the fourth wicket.
Both batsmen displayed exceptional form, with Das scoring a blistering 72 off just 39 balls, including 11 boundaries and two sixes. Walter supported him well, contributing 51 runs off 27 deliveries. Among the Essex bowlers, Matt Henry excelled, finishing with figures of 3 for 24, while Jack Brooks and Ben Green claimed two wickets each.
In response, Essex made an impressive start in their pursuit of 187 runs. The opening pair of wicketkeeper-batsman Tom Banton and Will Smeed forged a solid 64-run partnership.
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Subsequently, Tom Abell and Sean Dickson ensured victory for the Lewis Gregory-led Somerset side, sealing a comfortable seven-wicket win with their 66-run partnership.
Roelof van der Merwe’s determination to continue playing despite the painful injury serves as a testament to the spirit of sportsmanship and dedication.
Known as the bull dog, his resilience and commitment to his team’s cause are commendable and stand as an inspiration for athletes around the world.