5 thrilling last over finishes in ICC Tournaments

#2. 2002 ICC Knock Out Championship Semi Final - India v South Africa

Virender Sehwag became an unlikely hero with the ball

India were the team to beat in the tournament. When India played South Africa, a close contest was expected. Going by the old adage "Big Runs win you matches", India had no hesitation in winning the toss and batting first on a dry wicket which was expected to become slower and lower.

India got off to a flyer with Virender Sehwag and Sourav Ganguly scoring 42 in 5 overs. After Ganguly got out, Sehwag consolidated the position with Laxman. Sehwag was dismissed for 59.

Rahul Dravid, Yuvraj Singh and Mohammad Kaif gave the final impetus to the innings and helped India reach 262. The score was a competitive one considering the quality of spin bowlers India had.

South Africa got off to a steady start after losing Graeme Smith, but soon Gibbs and Kallis tightened the noose around the Indian bowlers with a massive 176 run stand. Due to excessive heat and humidity, Gibbs who was already struggling, had to retire hurt at 116.

The turnaround

After the departure of Gibbs, India dismissed both Dippenaar and Rhodes in quick time to some fabulous catches taken by Kumble and Yuvraj Singh. 62 runs were needed from 9 overs and the pressure was mounting on Kallis and Boucher who found it difficult to get going against Harbhajan and Sehwag. Sehwag, in particular, was bowling an impressive spell by stitching lots of dot balls.

The equation came down to 21 from 6 balls. Sehwag, who had picked up Boucher, had only conceded 14 in 4 overs. He was asked to bowl the all-important last over

Although the first ball was swatted for a mammoth six by Kallis, he was caught behind for 97 off the very next delivery. Lance Klusener, who had struggled to put bat to ball, tried some hefty blows only to sky them up without any elevation.

When 11 runs were needed off 2 balls, Sehwag threw it up wide outside off and all Klusener could do was drive it to cover.

This sealed the match for India and South Africa had unfortunately choked again under pressure.