The 2019 Cricket World Cup final between England and New Zealand is etched in the memory of cricket fans worldwide as one of the most dramatic and controversial matches in the sport's history. The game concluded with a tie after both the regulation 50 overs and a Super Over couldn't separate the two sides. England were then awarded the victory based on the now-scrapped boundary countback rule, leaving the New Zealand team and their captain, Kane Williamson, heartbroken.
In a recent interview, Kane Williamson reflected on the agonizing defeat with a touch of humor. When reminded of the major umpiring mistake that gave England an extra run due to an overthrow, the star batter jokingly remarked that the Kiwis "won it". This statement is a lighthearted way of addressing the controversial circumstances surrounding the match's conclusion. In the final over, a throw from Martin Guptill hit Ben Stokes' bat and went for four, giving England six runs instead of the five they should have received.
Williamson's response underscores his leadership qualities and his ability to maintain composure even when faced with disappointment. He has consistently displayed grace in defeat, earning him respect from fans and fellow players alike. Following the 2019 World Cup final, Williamson was widely praised for his sportsmanship and was named the Player of the Tournament.
Looking back at the final, Williamson acknowledged the difficulty in accepting the boundary count rule. He described theNew Zealand dressing room as quiet and filled with disappointment after the game. He noted that the rule was obscure and that "trying to make sense of that was the toughest part".
Despite the controversial ending, Williamson has emphasized the positive aspects of the tournament and the team's performance. He has expressed pride in his team's fight and the heart they showed throughout the campaign. He also appreciated the overwhelming positive response from fans, who enjoyed the match.
Williamson identified the unity within his team as a key strength that helped them navigate tough situations. He praised the team's ability to adapt to unexpected conditions and give themselves opportunities to win under pressure.
The Black Caps have a rich cricketing history, with legendary players like Richard Hadlee, Martin Crowe, and Stephen Fleming. More recently, players such as Brendon McCullum, Ross Taylor and Kane Williamson have shaped the team's aggressive and innovative style.
While the 2019 World Cup final will forever be a painful memory for New Zealand cricket, Kane Williamson's leadership and dignified response have turned a moment of heartbreak into a testament to his character. His recent comments, delivered with a touch of humor, serve as a reminder of the controversial circumstances of the match, but also highlight his ability to move forward with grace and sportsmanship.