Mohammed Shami (R) of India celebrates Jesse Ryder of New Zealand being bowled out during the first one day international (ODI) cricket match between New Zealand and India at McLean Park in Napier on January 19, 2014. PHOTO: AFP
Chasing New Zealand’s 292 for seven, India were all out for 268 in the 49th over despite Virat Kohli (123) posting his 18th ODI century.
They appeared to have victory in their grasp needing just 70 from the last eight overs, as Kohli and Mahendra Singh Dhoni looked comfortable in a 95-run partnership for the fifth wicket.
But in the space of six deliveries, McClenaghan removed Dhoni (40), Ravi Jadeja (duck) and Kohli to have India reeling on 237 for seven, and they never recovered.
That brief spell was where the game was lost, said Dhoni.
“Those three wickets were tough on the team,” he said. “You don’t expect your tail enders to win the game and it was very important that one of us should’ve carried on. It was disappointing to lose the game.”
New Zealand captain Brendon McCullum said it was ‘a captain’s nightmare’ when Kohli and Dhoni were in full flight but he had faith in McClenaghan.
“He’s in the team to attack and take wickets and the message was pretty simple – try and find a way to take a wicket,” he said. “Be as aggressive as you can and be as hostile as you can and if it falls your way, great. I thought he was outstanding.”
Published in The Express Tribune, January 20th, 2014.
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