New Zealand pace bowler Lockie Ferguson said being surprised by former Indian captain MS Dhoni leaving the ball through to the wicketkeeper in the closing stages of the 2019 ODI World Cup semifinal at Manchester as well. Chasing
240 for victory, Team India were in a struggle at 71/5 when Dhoni came to bat. He led India’s recovery and took them to 178/6 in 44 overs as well.

However, with 10 runs already scored off the 45th over from Ferguson, Dhoni left the final delivery of the over, with 52 runs required off 31 balls as well.

Recalling Dhoni’s leave in an interview with Crictracker, Ferguson said: “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.”

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“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,” he again shared.

Lockie Ferguson also applauded India’s strategy to manage ace Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah’s workload, saying it is a good example for future fast bowlers as well. He sat out two of the five Tests in India’s recently concluded tour of England as well.

“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. “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.”