New Zealand fast bowler Lockie Ferguson revealed he was taken aback by former Indian captain MS Dhoni’s decision to leave a delivery to the wicketkeeper during the tense final moments of the 2019 ODI World Cup semifinal in Manchester. At that stage, India were struggling at 71/5 while chasing 240.
Dhoni, the right-handed batsman, orchestrated a remarkable fightback, guiding India to 178/6 in 44 overs. Yet, in the 45th over bowled by Ferguson, after India had already scored 10 runs, Dhoni left the final ball untouched, with 52 runs needed off just 31 deliveries. The move shocked fans at the time and continues to be widely discussed on social media.
Reflecting on that incident 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 Dhoni 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.”
He further added:
“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. But it was nice to get him out that game and, of course, get across the line in the semi-final.”
“Great Example For Young Pacers”– Lockie Ferguson On Bumrah’s Workload Management
Lockie Ferguson praised India’s handling of Jasprit Bumrah’s workload, calling it a model for young fast bowlers. Despite missing two Tests on the England tour, Bumrah’s absence didn’t stop India from securing wins at Edgbaston and the Oval, finishing the series 2-2.
“I think it’s great. I think it’s really important in this day and age. We seem to be playing a lot of cricket. Look, Jasprit Bumrah has had a tough injury last year after the Test matches in Australia. Clearly, he was bowling a lot for his country, trying to win every game for his country. But it does just take its toll on the body. And I think just for it, it’s a very good example for up-and-coming fast bowlers,” said Ferguson (via Crictracker).
He further continued:
“Obviously, he does very well on the park, but he’s learning how to manage his body so he can play as long as he can. And managing those loads is something very close to me and very important and for all quick bowlers.”
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