The World Cup semi-final between India and New Zealand took place in Manchester in 2019, and Lockie Ferguson still vividly remembers that match. It was an unforgettable game, not only because the Kiwis emerged victorious but also due to the unique circumstances that led to it being played over two days. Understanding the significance of this memorable match for Kiwi fast bowlers remains challenging for Ferguson even now.
“More than two days,” Ferguson fondly recalled. “I have never played a one-day game that stretched over two days, and it was not even in the headlines. So, I feel that playing that match was quite remarkable, and it was genuinely enjoyable for us at that time.”
If the match had been completed on the same day, perhaps India would have had a good chance of chasing New Zealand’s modest score of 239 runs. However, once it extended to the second day, the wet weather and morning dew favored the conditions for New Zealand’s fast bowlers. The match took place on July 9 and 10 at Old Trafford, and India lost the game by 18 runs.
Four years later, changes are underway, and it is said that India will avenge that heart-breaking loss. Ferguson said, “Four years have passed, we have played a lot of cricket in between, and I believe both teams are eager for Wednesday to arrive.” “I think writing such stories (about revenge) is your job. But from our perspective, I don’t think I can comment on that. But at the same time, you see, four years ago, there was a fantastic event, a great game.”
Matt Henry was a crucial factor in the 2019 semi-final. When India started chasing the target on the second day, the fast bowler took important wickets of Rohit Sharma and his opening partner KL Rahul in consecutive overs. This time, Henry won’t be present due to injury, but Ferguson says that the Saudi team has filled the void left by Henry’s absence.
Ferguson felt, “Matt Henry is clearly a big miss in our team, and without Matt Henry, we are still a beautiful unit.” “I am quite disappointed that Matt Henry is out of the World Cup, which was very unfortunate. But now, from a cricket perspective, Saudi Team has a lot of experience as the captain of the Test team, T20, and ODIs. He has also played a lot of cricket in India, which is excellent.”
On Wednesday, New Zealand will play their consecutive fifth World Cup semi-final. Ferguson attributed the team’s consistency at this level to the team’s collective commitment. He stated, “When we start a competition, like any other team, we are here to win. But, for sure, we know it’s a process, and I think certainly, within our team, we have played a lot of cricket together for a long time. Time, so we stick to our processes, and I know it may sound cliché, but I think it keeps us balanced in a way, and naturally, as Kiwis, we stay where our feet are, which I think is positive.”
“Becoming part of the semi-final is undoubtedly a great joy. I know the team will be starting in a few days, and obviously, they are excited to play on this field – I have played some games here, and there is a fantastic crowd here. So, from our perspective, we are playing some excellent cricket. I hope to start in a few days,” the fast bowler said in conclusion.”