In the 2019 ODI World Cup Semifinal, Rohit Sharma wanted MS Dhoni to bat at number four; an old video goes viral. Watch

 Indian cricket fans were devastated when Team India was eliminated from the semi-final of the 2019 ODI World Cup after a tough loss to New Zealand in England. One of the most heart-wrenching moments of the match, and perhaps in recent Indian cricket history, was MS Dhoni's late run-out during the crucial run chase. 

In the 2019 ODI World Cup Semifinal, Rohit Sharma wanted MS Dhoni to bat at number four; an old video goes viral. Watch

Dhoni’s dismissal marked a turning point in the game, leading to a dramatic collapse that allowed New Zealand to secure an 18-run victory and advance to the World Cup final. This defeat was particularly difficult for Indian supporters, as the team had performed exceptionally well throughout the tournament.

Rohit Sharma, who was the tournament's highest run-scorer with 648 runs and five centuries, later commented on Dhoni's batting position in the match. In a video that has recently gone viral, Rohit can be heard expressing his opinion: "I personally always feel that him batting at number 4 is ideal for the team. It totally depends on how the captain (Virat) and the coach think about it. Personally, I would be happy if he (Dhoni) bats at number four." 

During the crucial semi-final against New Zealand, Dhoni was sent in to bat at number seven, a decision that many have since questioned. India, set a target of 240 runs to chase, faced a challenging start. After batting first, New Zealand managed to post a competitive total of 239/8 in their 50 overs. In response, India struggled early on, finding themselves in deep trouble at 24-4 and later at 92-6 following the dismissals of Rishabh Pant and Hardik Pandya.

Dhoni, coming in at number seven, formed a vital partnership with Ravindra Jadeja. The two managed to add 116 runs for the seventh wicket, with Jadeja playing an aggressive knock, scoring a fighting half-century before being dismissed for 77 off 59 balls in the 48th over. This partnership reignited hope among Indian fans.

With India needing 31 runs in the last two overs, Dhoni attempted to accelerate, smashing a six over deep backward point to keep India's chances alive. However, his innings of 50 runs from 72 balls came to an abrupt end due to a brilliant piece of fielding by Martin Guptill, whose direct hit resulted in Dhoni being run out. This dismissal not only dashed India’s hopes of reaching the final but also marked the end of Dhoni’s illustrious career in international cricket. Dhoni announced his retirement the following year on August 15, 2020, with an Instagram post that read, “Thanks a lot for your support throughout. From 1929 hrs consider me as Retired."

The defeat left Rohit Sharma visibly emotional, almost in tears, as he reflected on the missed opportunity. Meanwhile, Dhoni's knock received mixed reactions; while some appreciated his effort, others criticized him for his cautious approach, especially since Jadeja had been finding boundaries with ease.

In the aftermath, both Dhoni and then-captain Virat Kohli, along with the team management, faced criticism for the decision to send Dhoni in so late in the innings when his experience could have provided much-needed stability earlier on.

Despite this disappointing end, MS Dhoni remains a celebrated figure in cricket history. He is the only captain to have won all ICC trophies in white-ball formats, having led India to victory in the 2007 T20 World Cup, the 2011 ODI World Cup, and the 2013 ICC Champions Trophy. His legacy as a captain, wicketkeeper, and batsman continues to inspire future generations of cricketers.