Pakistan Legend Misbah-ul-Haq Opines On MS Dhoni’s Move To Call Jogindar Sharma Over Harbhajan Singh In 2007 T20 World Cup Final

Former Pakistan cricketer Misbah-ul-Haq recently revisited the heart-wrenching memories of the 2007 T20 World Cup final, a match that etched itself into cricketing folklore. Held in Johannesburg, this inaugural T20 World Cup final between arch-rivals India and Pakistan was a nail-biter that showcased the unpredictable nature of T20 cricket. Misbah played a pivotal role in almost steering Pakistan to victory, scoring a crucial 43 off 38 balls adorned with four sixes. Despite his valiant effort, Pakistan fell short, and India claimed the title in a dramatic finish.

The Tension-Filled Final Over

As the match entered its final over, the tension was palpable. Pakistan needed 13 runs from six balls, and the equation eventually boiled down to six runs required from the last four balls. Misbah, who had brought Pakistan within touching distance of victory, faced Joginder Sharma. In a heart-stopping moment, Misbah attempted a scoop shot over short fine leg, only to find S. Sreesanth’s waiting hands. This catch sealed India’s win and handed them the inaugural T20 World Cup title.

Anticipating the Final Over Bowler

In a candid interview on Star Sports, Misbah-ul-Haq shed light on his thought process during those crucial moments. He revealed that he had anticipated Joginder Sharma would bowl the final over instead of a spinner. Misbah explained that, given the short boundary on one side of the ground, it would have been too risky for India to use a spinner in such a high-stakes situation. He believed that a spinner would have been easier to hit for boundaries, making a medium pacer like Joginder Sharma a safer choice for India.

“I think I knew who was going to bowl the over and it wouldn’t be spin. The only option they had at the moment was Joginder Sharma. I knew it wouldn’t be a spinner because the side’s boundary was very short. It would be tough for a spinner to bowl that over. I could easily hit them towards the side boundary,” Misbah recalled.

Praising MS Dhoni’s Strategic Decision

Misbah-ul-Haq also lauded then-India captain MS Dhoni for his tactical acumen in choosing Joginder Sharma over Harbhajan Singh for the final over. He acknowledged the brilliance behind Dhoni’s decision, which was influenced by the short side boundary and the risk of Misbah hitting a spinner for a boundary.

Misbah appreciated the calculated risk taken by Dhoni, noting that the Indian captain likely recognized the importance of fielding in such a close match. By opting for a medium pacer, Dhoni minimized the risk of conceding a boundary, banking on the fielding team to secure the win.

“So I had this idea from before, and I think it was the right call from MS Dhoni. There was a chance, an outside chance that you could clear a medium pacer if you watched him closely and they also had the idea that it was the last wicket, so even the final runs depend on the fielding team. If you get out, the match is over. So I was mentally prepared that who was going to bowl that over,” Misbah added.

The Unforgettable Scoop Shot

The image of Misbah attempting the scoop shot is etched in the memories of cricket fans worldwide. This high-risk, high-reward shot was a gamble that did not pay off, leading to Sreesanth’s crucial catch at short fine leg. Misbah’s choice of shot in that intense moment has been both criticized and sympathized with by cricket pundits and fans alike. The decision reflected the pressure and split-second judgment calls players must make in the heat of the game.

Reflecting on the Match’s Impact

Reflecting on the match, Misbah acknowledged the heartbreak but also the invaluable lessons learned. The 2007 T20 World Cup final was more than just a cricket match; it was a testament to the spirit of the game and the fine margins that often decide outcomes in sports. Misbah’s innings, despite ending in disappointment, showcased his resilience and ability to perform under pressure, traits that have defined his illustrious career.

The Legacy of the 2007 T20 World Cup

The 2007 T20 World Cup final remains one of the most iconic matches in cricket history. It marked the beginning of the T20 era, bringing a new dimension to the sport. For India, it was a monumental victory that rejuvenated cricket in the country, paving the way for the Indian Premier League (IPL) and the rise of T20 cricket globally. For Pakistan, despite the defeat, the match highlighted their fighting spirit and set the stage for future successes in the format.

Misbah’s Enduring Influence

Misbah-ul-Haq’s reflections on the 2007 T20 World Cup final provide a deep insight into the mind of a cricketer who has experienced the highest highs and the lowest lows. His journey, marked by perseverance and a never-give-up attitude, continues to inspire young cricketers. As he reminisces about that fateful day in Johannesburg, Misbah’s words remind us of the unpredictable beauty of cricket and the indomitable spirit of those who play it.

The 2007 T20 World Cup final remains a significant chapter in cricket history, symbolizing the thrilling unpredictability of T20 cricket and the strategic brilliance that defines the sport. Misbah-ul-Haq’s candid recollections offer a poignant reminder of the fine margins that separate victory from defeat and the enduring impact of those moments on the players and fans alike.

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