3) MS Dhoni’s decision to back Ishant Sharma and let spinners bowl in death overs at the Champions Trophy 2013
After the 2007 T20 World Cup immaculate decision, MS Dhoni was being appreciated for every uncanny step. In the Champions Trophy final of 2013, India fought for the trophy against England who was also the host of the tournament.
Due to rain, the game was reduced to 20 overs per side. It was a bad day for India in batting as the captain Dhoni, Rohit Sharma and Suresh Raina lost their wickets cheaply. But Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja set a crucial partnership to led the team to set the target of 130 runs.
In reply, England also lost its top order but they controlled the game as Eoin Morgan and Ravi Bopara set the partnership. Ishant Sharma proved expensive as he leaked too many runs in his early three overs but MS Dhoni backed the pacer. He saved Ishant’s last over and handed over him the ball in 17th over. The veteran also came out as successful as he snared the wicket of Morgan and Bopara. After this, the game turned to India’s favour and the visitors won the match by five runs.