Ishan Kishan (Video grabs)

NEW DELHI: Ishan Kishan was the undisputed star with the bat as India sealed the T20I series against Zimbabwe on Saturday, but it was a comical run-out miss behind the stumps that had social media buzzing long after the final ball.The wicketkeeper-batter, who smashed a brilliant 81 off 44 deliveries to earn the Player of the Match award, became the centre of attention for an amusing fielding lapse during Zimbabwe’s chase. Kishan later saw the funny side of the incident, joking about it during the post-match presentation.The viral moment came in the 15th over when Zimbabwe’s Tadiwanashe Marumani nudged the ball towards deep backward point.

A mix-up between the batters left both stranded near the bowler’s end, presenting India with what appeared to be a straightforward run-out opportunity.However, Kishan casually underarmed the throw towards the stumps, seemingly believing the batter had already made his ground. The throw neither hit the stumps nor reached Ravi Bishnoi for a backup attempt, allowing Zimbabwe to escape.Realising what had happened, Kishan immediately placed his hand on his head with a sheepish grin as teammates and fans were left in disbelief.WATCH: Ishan Kishan’s run out miss

Kishan laughs off viral moment

The light-hearted moment quickly made the rounds on social media, and Kishan was asked about it after receiving the Player of the Match award.“I thought the batter was already inside the crease, but my bad. I’ll be looking at the bails next time,” he said with a smile.Fortunately for India, the missed chance had no bearing on the outcome as Zimbabwe were eventually bundled out for 129, handing the visitors a commanding 90-run victory and an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.

Brilliant 81 powers India to series-clinching win

Kishan ensured his amusing run-out miss remained only a footnote by producing a superb innings after India slipped to 29/2 inside the powerplay.The left-hander first rebuilt the innings with captain Shreyas Iyer in a 66-run stand before adding a match-defining 94-run partnership with Tilak Varma.Kishan struck nine fours and two sixes during his 44-ball 81, bringing up his 13th T20 half-century in just 31 deliveries. Tilak provided the perfect finishing touch with an unbeaten 60 off only 29 balls as India surged to 219/5.Zimbabwe never threatened the target despite Brian Bennett’s brisk 32. Debutant Yash Thakur impressed with 2/30, while Abhishek Sharma claimed 3/17. Prince Yadav struck twice before leaving the field with a hamstring injury.India eventually wrapped up a comprehensive 90-run victory to clinch the series with one match still to play.