‘Was a difficult one’: Dhoni on heartbreak of 2019 ODI WC Semi-Final loss

The Indian cricket team’s semi-final defeat against New Zealand in the 2019 ODI World Cup remains a poignant memory for fans worldwide. The loss was particularly bitter as India had performed exceptionally well until the semi-final, where they faced a narrow defeat. The match is especially memorable for MS Dhoni's run-out by Martin Guptill, a moment that many believe was the turning point in the game. This match also marked Dhoni's last appearance in international cricket, as he announced his retirement a few months later. 

MS Dhoni On 2019 World Cup Semi Final#MSDhonipic.twitter.com/HAiXWBivef

— Chakri Dhoni (@ChakriDhonii) July 31, 2024

Years after the fateful match, Dhoni has finally opened up about the pain of not being able to lift the World Cup title. In a video circulating on social media, Dhoni reflected on the disappointment, revealing how difficult it was for him to come to terms with the loss.

Also Read: Dhoni goes to the bowler’s plan first and only if it does not work, does he guide you: Theekshana

"It was a difficult one because I knew that this will be my last World Cup, so it would have been good to be on the winning side. It was a heartbreak moment, so we accepted the result and we tried to move on. Time thoda lagta hai aur World Cup ke baad thoda time mil bhi jata hai. Maine toh uske baad international khela nahi hai toh mujhe toh kaafi time mila hai. (It takes time and one gets some time after the World Cup. I haven't played any international after that, so I got a lot of time). So, yes, it was a heartbreak but at the same time you have to get out of it. So you just accept that you tried your best, but you were not able to win it," Dhoni said.

Dhoni's candid admission has resonated with fans, bringing back memories of the match that ended his illustrious international career and highlighting the emotional toll of the game on even the most seasoned players.