Lockie Ferguson Reflects on MS Dhoni’s Memorable Moment in the 2019 World Cup Semi-Final
Lockie Ferguson has shared his thoughts on a surprising moment during the 2019 Men’s ODI World Cup semi-final between India and New Zealand at Old Trafford, Manchester. As India chased 240 runs, they found themselves needing 52 runs off just 31 balls when MS Dhoni unexpectedly let a delivery go by in the 45th over, bowled by Ferguson, even with the run rate soaring over 10.
Ferguson expressed his shock, recalling that he had bowled a not-so-great delivery and was surprised Dhoni didn’t go for it. Later in the 49th over, with India still needing 31 runs from the last two overs, Dhoni hit Ferguson for a six over the head of Mitchell Santner at backward point.
Ferguson explained, “It was a bad ball—short and wide. I thought any batter would hit it for four or six, but Dhoni chose to leave it. My plan was to catch him next time he played that shot, and he did. Unfortunately, that time it just went over the fielder’s head. I believe it was Santner on the boundary.”
Dhoni’s Calculated Approach
After hitting the six, fans were hopeful that Dhoni could guide India to victory. However, just two balls later, a brilliant direct hit from Martin Guptill led to Dhoni’s run out. Attempting to run two runs with Yuzvendra Chahal at the other end, Dhoni fell short as Guptill charged in, picked up the ball, and made an impeccable throw to the stumps.
Ferguson praised Dhoni’s strategic mind, saying, “Dhoni is very calculated, especially towards the end. So, it was great for Guptill to run him out in that match.”
Once Dhoni was out, India’s chances dwindled, and they eventually lost the match by 18 runs, getting bowled out for 221 in just 49.3 overs. Dhoni managed to score 50 runs off 72 balls, with one four and one six, but his efforts weren’t enough. This defeat not only ended India’s World Cup journey but also marked Dhoni’s final game for the national team.
