On June 20, 2013, during the ICC Champions Trophy semi-final between India and Sri Lanka, a remarkable and unexpected moment unfolded when MS Dhoni, the Indian skipper, took on the role of a bowler. This unusual decision came after a series of events that saw Dhoni step away from his usual wicketkeeping duties to bowl for his team.
It all began when Dhoni, in a moment of strategic thinking, handed his gloves and pads to Dinesh Karthik, who took over behind the stumps. Dhoni then grabbed the ball and stood at the top of his bowling mark, preparing to bowl in an official match. The crowd, as well as the players, were taken aback by the sight of the normally behind-the-stumps leader moving to bowl.
In the 40th over of the Sri Lankan innings, Dhoni, with his unique calmness and composure, bowled his first delivery to Mahela Jayawardene, one of Sri Lanka’s finest players. The ball was a full-length delivery that pitched outside off, and Jayawardene, in an attempt to defend it, was struck on the pads. The Indian players and the crowd went up in unison for the appeal. The on-field umpire immediately raised his finger, giving Jayawardene out leg before wicket (LBW).
However, the drama didn’t end there. Sri Lanka, as per the rules, took a review, and after analyzing the footage, the third umpire overturned the decision, deeming the ball to be missing the stumps. This reversal was a significant moment in the match, as it shifted momentum back to Sri Lanka. Despite the review, the episode remained a memorable one, highlighting Dhoni’s ability to adapt and contribute to his team in ways that went beyond his traditional role as a wicketkeeper and captain.
While India ultimately went on to win the semi-final and qualify for the final, this moment stands out as one of the more unconventional instances in Dhoni’s illustrious career. It showcased his leadership qualities, versatility, and the unpredictable nature of the game. It was a moment that fans and cricket enthusiasts still talk about, underlining how Dhoni was willing to take on any challenge for the sake of his team, even in such a high-stakes match.
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