Ravi Shastri finally says why MS Dhoni batted at 7 in India’s WC semi loss to NZ
Mumbai: On Friday (December 13, 2019), team India’s head coach, Ravi Shastri finally disclosed the actual reason why Mahendra Singh Dhoni batted at number 7 during India's ICC Cricket World Cup 2019 semi-final defeat to New Zealand.
After India’s defeat, many eyebrows were raised as to why Dhoni was sent at 7, despite losing five early wickets. India’s then batting coach, Sanjay Bangar was also questioned, with various reports stating that Bangar decided to send Dhoni at number seven.
Speaking on Dhoni’s batting position, Ravi Shastri, during an interview with India Today stated, "Absolutely not (on whether India should have promoted Dhoni). Because at 5 for 3, had Dhoni gone, the game was over. But with Dhoni in the 48th over, with his computer out. Oh you were very much in the game but for that run-out."
"And what is Dhoni's strength. I will argue with anyone who wants to argue. What is Dhoni's strength? What is he known for? The best finisher in the game. So where should he be batting....at the finish or at the top?”, Shastri further added.
After losing the toss, New Zealand chose to bat first and the team somehow got to a modest total of 239/8 at the end of 50 overs. India’s pursuit of 240 began with a quick flurry of wickets as Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul and Virat Kohli sent back early by the in-form Kiwi bowlers.
However, with Ravindra Jadeja's gritty knock of 77, combined with MS Dhoni’s cool and calm 50, India managed to put up a 116-runs partnership, which ultimately led India to 221 – 19 runs shy of victory.
Despite Dhoni’s cool and calm 50, he was still criticized as he took 72 deliveries to get to his half-century.
Shastri added, "So, Jadeja made things happen. It was a brilliant inning, we were nowhere. He made the game and there was the perfect orchestrator there, MS to finish it off. And I will tell you what, his computer was out. He knew who is going to bowl one over or six balls were calculated. It was all in his computer, but for that run-out but that's the game."
"We lost by 16 (18 runs). He got out at 10 balls to spare. 10 balls to spare, MS Dhoni and 20 needed. You are talking about the best finisher in the game, there is an over up his sleeves that is calculated. What is 20 in 10, 2 hits over the rope it is 8 in 8. It is a tough pill to swallow,” Shastri said.
Moreover, after India’s World Cup 2019 semi-final defeat to New Zealand, Shastri also revealed the mood inside the dressing room.
Speaking on the environment, Shastri said, "We guys had a lot to learn from them. It was a really tough pill to swallow. I don't think anyone spoke to each other for a day or so. It was hard, but you play sport. The men play this game. Proper men. Learn from that experience and move on. That's why I respect this team."
