During a 2019 World Cup semi-final match against New Zealand at Old Trafford, India experienced a devastating loss that still resonates in the minds of cricket fans.
In a low-scoring, rain-affected encounter, India’s top-order batting crumbled, leaving fans in despair. Facing a modest target of 240 runs, the top-order batter fell like pack of cards with only a glimmer of hope provided by MS Dhoni and Ravindra Jadeja‘s extraordinary 116-run partnership for the eighth wicket. Nevertheless, the Black Caps emerged victorious by an 18-run margin, securing a place in the final.
Sanjay Bangar’s insights on India’s 2019 world cup semi-final loss
During the ODI World Cup 2023 match between India and New Zealand at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Stadium in Dharamsala on Sunday, Sanjay Bangar shed light on the emotional aftermath of that heart-wrenching 2019 World Cup semi-final loss.
Bangar disclosed that the weight of defeat was so overwhelming that it brought even the toughest players, including the iconic MS Dhoni, to tears. This revelation provides a glimpse into the profound impact such moments can have on the players’ emotions.
“It was a heartbreaking moment for all the players as India were playing excellent cricket. We won seven matches in the league phase and to bow out like that was not good. Players cried like kids. MS Dhoni was crying like children. Hardik Pandya and Rishabh Pant had tears in their eyes. Such stories remain in the dressing room,” Bangar said during the commentary.
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India’s dominant bowling performance
Speaking of the game, opting to bowl first, the Men in Blue showcased their dominance with a disciplined bowling performance. Mohammed Shami was the standout performer, picking a five-wicket haul (5/54) to restrict New Zealand to 273/10 in 50 overs.
India’s reply:
India’s reply began with a solid opening partnership between Rohit Sharma (46) and Shubman Gill (26), which provided a strong platform with 71 runs on the board. However, it was Virat Kohli who shone brightest, steering the team with a match-winning 95 off 104 balls.
India found themselves at 191/5 in the 34th over, but Kohli’s heroics ensured victory was within reach. Ravindra Jadeja (39 not out) partnered with Kohli to seal the deal with two overs to spare.