The specter of a World Cup semifinal often brings with it a cascade of vivid memories, sometimes of jubilance, other times of heartbreak. For New Zealand pacer Lockie Ferguson, the semifinal clash against India back in Manchester, 2019, is one that is etched in his mind with exceptional clarity. Not only did the Black Caps emerge victorious, but they did so under extraordinary circumstances—a game stretched over two days, a rarity in the world of one-day cricket.
Reflecting on the match from four years ago, Ferguson expressed his amazement at the unprecedented structure of that seminal game. “I’ve never played a one-day game over two days, it was literally not even in the title. So, I think playing that game was pretty incredible and obviously very pleasing for us at the time,” he said.
On that day, it seemed India might have managed to chase down New Zealand’s attainable 239-run total. Unfortunately for them, the weather gods deemed otherwise. As the match trickled into a second day, the damp conditions and early morning moisture played right into the hands of Kiwi pacers. July 9 and 10 of 2019 are dates that scroll through the annals of World Cup history, with India falling short by 18 runs.
Fast forward to the present, and the air is thick with talks of reprisal, with India possibly seeking vengeance for that gut-wrenching defeat. Ferguson acknowledges the narrative while looking ahead to the game. “Four years have gone past we’ve played a lot of cricket in between and both teams I’m sure are raring to go come Wednesday,” he commented. While revenge makes for an intriguing story backdrop, the Kiwi pacer prefers to focus on the thrill of what was indeed a spectacular game.
The 2019 semifinal saw Matt Henry as a pivotal figure, whose back-to-back dismissals of Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul were detrimental to India’s chances. However, this time, Henry is unable to join the fray due to an injury—and in this void steps Tim Southee. “Matt Henry is obviously a big hole in our side and we’re still a handsome bunch without Matt Henry,” joked Ferguson. Yet he immediately acknowledged the gravitas Southee brings, citing his vast experience and leadership in all formats of the game, not to mention being seasoned with Indian conditions.
As New Zealand gears up for their fifth consecutive 50-over World Cup semifinal, there is a sense of steady confidence within the camp. Ferguson attributes this consistency to the team’s methodical approach and grounded nature. He believes the Kiwi disposition to remain ‘where their feet are’ lends them a positive edge.
The upcoming semifinal stirs excitement within the squad, with Ferguson looking forward to the vibrant atmosphere and the quality of cricket they’ve been exhibiting. “It’s obviously a big pleasure to be part of the semifinals. I know the team is very excited to get underway in a couple of days and obviously to play at this ground – I’ve had a few games here and It’s a pretty spectacular crowd.”
In preparation for the clash, there will be an unmistakable absence – Henry’s tenacious spirit and match-turning ability. However, in the spirit of cricket and the resilience of a well-bonded team, New Zealand finds solace in Southee’s experience, which may just be the key to unlock their passage to another World Cup final.