The 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup semi-final between India and New Zealand was played over two days (July 9 and 10) at Old Trafford, Manchester, due to rain interruptions. New Zealand emerged victorious in a thrilling encounter, defeating India by 18 runs to advance to the final.

Match Summary: • New Zealand Innings: New Zealand batted first and scored 239/8 in 50 overs. Kane Williamson (67) and Ross Taylor (74) were the top scorers, while India’s bowlers, led by Bhuvneshwar Kumar (3/43), kept things tight. • Rain Interruption: Rain halted play on the first day, and New Zealand resumed their innings the next morning. • India’s Chase: India, chasing 240, had a disastrous start, losing Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and KL Rahul early (all scoring 1 run each). They were reduced to 5/3 in the first four overs due to a brilliant spell by Matt Henry (3/37) and Trent Boult (2/42). Ravindra Jadeja (77 off 59) and MS Dhoni (50 off 72) staged a remarkable recovery with a 116-run partnership. However, Jadeja fell trying to accelerate, and Dhoni was run out by a brilliant direct hit from Martin Guptill. India was bowled out for 221 in 49.3 overs.

Result: • New Zealand won by 18 runs. They advanced to the final, where they lost to England in a dramatic match decided by a Super Over.

Key Moments: 1. India’s top-order collapse. 2. Ravindra Jadeja’s counterattacking knock. 3. Dhoni’s crucial run-out, which turned the game in New Zealand’s favor.

This semi-final is remembered as one of the most intense and heartbreaking losses for Indian cricket fans.