The Catch of the Decade! Chapman and Mitchell’s Mid-Air Juggle Stuns the World in T20 WC 2026

The ongoing T20 World Cup 2026 has witnessed some spectacular moments, but none as jaw-dropping as the relay catch pulled off by New Zealand’s Mark Chapman and Daryl Mitchell. In a high-stakes clash against the UAE at the Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, the Kiwi duo displayed an extraordinary level of athleticism and presence of mind to dismiss Alishan Sharafu, leaving the cricketing world in awe.
The miracle occurred in the 15th over of the UAE innings. UAE batter Alishan Sharafu launched a massive hit off Mitchell Santner’s delivery that seemed destined for a six. However, Mark Chapman, patrolling the boundary, sprinted and leaped high into the air. Sensing he was about to fall over the ropes, Chapman flicked the ball back into the field of play while still in mid-air. An alert Daryl Mitchell, stationed nearby, completed the catch cleanly. The perfectly synchronized effort meant Sharafu had to depart after a well-made 55 off 47 balls. Fans and experts are already hailing it as the best catch of the 2026 World Cup.
Earlier, the UAE had won the toss and opted to bat first, posting a competitive total of 173 for 6. Captain Muhammad Waseem led from the front with a blistering unbeaten 66 off 45 deliveries, supported by Sharafu’s gritty half-century. For New Zealand, Matt Henry was the pick of the bowlers with two wickets, while Santner and Ferguson claimed one each. While the Kiwis chase a target of 174, the internet is flooded with clips of Chapman’s acrobatic brilliance. This catch is not just a dismissal; it’s a testament to New Zealand’s world-class fielding standards that have set the tournament’s energy soaring.