The 2019 Cricket World Cup semi-final between India and New Zealand was a heart-stopping affair, etched in the memories of cricket fans worldwide. New Zealand emerged victorious by 18 runs in a match that extended over two days due to rain. The Kiwis defended a target of 240 against a strong Indian batting lineup, ultimately reaching the final. India's chase was tumultuous, marked by early wickets and a late-order resurgence that ultimately fell short. Among the many talking points from that match, one moment continues to be debated and analyzed: MS Dhoni's leave of a Lockie Ferguson delivery in the 45th over.
India, chasing 240 for victory, found themselves in deep trouble at 71/5 when Dhoni arrived at the crease. Dhoni, known for his calm demeanor and masterful finishing abilities, began to rebuild the innings in partnership with Ravindra Jadeja. Together, they stitched together a valuable partnership, bringing India closer to the target. However, with the required run rate climbing, the pressure began to mount. With 52 runs needed off 31 balls, Ferguson bowled a delivery outside off-stump, which Dhoni opted to leave. This decision left many fans and experts surprised, given the urgency of the situation.
Lockie Ferguson, the bowler in question, recently reflected on that moment, admitting that he was also taken aback by Dhoni's decision. In an interview with CricTracker, Ferguson stated, "I can't remember what they were needing to chase at the time, but I knew they had to score a few runs. The plan was to bowl and see if MS would undercut it, and he left it. So I was surprised because naturally, when you're bowling, you're trying to restrict runs, then it's nice when a batter leaves it". Ferguson's plan was to tempt Dhoni into playing a cut shot, hoping he would direct the ball onto his stumps.
Dhoni's calculated approach was evident as he aimed to take the game deep, a strategy that kept India in contention. However, his uncharacteristic leave sparked considerable discussion. Some speculated that Dhoni's intention was to give the strike to the in-form Jadeja at the other end, without taking undue risks. Others questioned whether it was a misjudgment in a high-pressure situation.
Ferguson revealed that he attempted a similar delivery in his next over, and Dhoni responded by hitting it for a six. "But I think the next over, the first ball, I tried again, and he just got it over the boundary for six. So the plan almost worked the second time as well". Despite the six, Ferguson maintained that his strategy was nearly successful.
Ultimately, Dhoni's innings of 50 runs off 72 balls wasn't enough to guide India to victory. He was run out in the 49th over, a moment that effectively sealed India's fate. The loss was particularly heartbreaking for Indian fans, as it marked the end of Dhoni's ODI career. While the match is remembered for New Zealand's resilience and victory, Dhoni's surprising leave remains a significant point of discussion, highlighting the complexities and nuances of cricket strategy in crucial moments.
