One delivery in the 2019 World Cup semi-final left everyone stunned — even Lockie Ferguson, the bowler who delivered it. MS Dhoni’s surprising decision to leave the ball became one of the most debated moments of the match.
The Delivery That Surprised Ferguson
In the 45th over, India needed 52 runs from 31 balls. Ferguson bowled a short, wide delivery, hoping Dhoni would go for a big shot. But instead of attacking, Dhoni let the ball go — a decision that shocked not just him, but also those watching.
He told CricTracker about the moment:
“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.”
The Match’s Dramatic Finish
The semi-final ended in heartbreak for India. Dhoni was run out by a brilliant direct hit from Martin Guptill in the 49th over, leaving India 18 runs short of the target. For many, it was also Dhoni’s final World Cup appearance, adding an emotional layer to the intense encounter.
Ferguson’s Reflection
Looking back, Ferguson said that dismissing Dhoni was a huge moment for him as a bowler. He added that facing a legend like Dhoni always commands respect, and getting him out gave him a real confidence boost.
Why This Moment Stands Out
Dhoni’s decision to leave that ball has never been fully understood. With the required rate climbing and runs badly needed, people still wonder why Dhoni let it go when he could have easily played it. For Ferguson, it was simply a shocking moment against one of cricket’s greatest finishers.
