India’s senior leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal opened up about the emotional toll of the Men in Blue’s heartbreaking loss to New Zealand in the 2019 ODI World Cup semifinal in Manchester, calling it the moment that completely shattered him. Reflecting on the game, the 35-year-old acknowledged that he could have bowled better during the crucial knockout clash.
In that match at Old Trafford, New Zealand posted 239/8 after opting to bat first. India, in reply, were bowled out for 221 in 49.3 overs, losing by 18 runs, a defeat that also brought an end to MS Dhoni’s legendary international career. On Raj Shamani’s podcast, Chahal called the 2019 World Cup semifinal loss the moment that broke him mentally, deeply affecting him as both a player and person.
“Cricket wise, I think 2019 World Cup semifinal. It was Mahi bhai’s last match when we lost in Manchester. I think I could have done better in that game. I still feel about it. I could have pushed myself more and bowled better. I could have perhaps conceded 10-15 runs less. A lot of times you are in a flow. Things happen so fast that you don’t get a chance to think.”
“Maybe I could have stayed calm and done better in that match. I was the semifinal stage, so you have to give 15-20 percent extra,” the 35-year-old added.
Yuzvendra Chahal’s Bowling Figures From The 2019 ODI World Cup
Leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal featured in eight matches during the 2019 World Cup in England, where he picked up 12 wickets at an average of 36.83 and an economy rate of 5.97. His standout performance came against South Africa in Southampton, where he registered figures of 4 for 51.
In that game, he dismissed key batters Rassie van der Dussen, David Miller, Faf du Plessis, and Andile Phehlukwayo, helping India secure a six-wicket victory. Chahal also picked up two wickets each in matches against Australia, Afghanistan, and the West Indies.
Overall, the Haryana spinner has represented India in 72 ODIs, taking 121 wickets at an average of 27.13. His record includes two five-wicket hauls and five four-wicket hauls.
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