World Cup loss triggers talk of Rayudu and his heroics against New Zealand in February

India's predicament in the first powerplay of the 2019 World Cup semifinal against New Zealand triggered a recent memory for some Indian fans.

Ambati Rayudu during his knock of 90 against New Zealand.

In the semifinal of the 2019 World Cup semifinal against New Zealand, India found itself in a similar position it was tottering at five months ago against the same opposition in an ODI in Wellington.

In the last four match in Manchester on Wednesday, India was reduced to 24/4 at the end of 10 overs while chasing 240 for a place in the final. Number eight batsman Ravindra Jadeja's fighting 77 nearly took India home but eventually fell short by 18 runs.

In February, India was batting first and was reeling at 22/4 at the end of the first powerplay with Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, Shubman Gill and MS Dhoni back in the hut.

Incidentally, it was Ambati Rayudu, who was ignored for the World Cup squad, at No. 4 and Vijay Shankar who came together and led India's recovery with a 98-run stand.

Rayudu scored a crucial 90 as India posted 252. Indian bowlers put the squeeze on to take India to a 35-run win.

Vijay was picked in India's World Cup team and featured in three games before a toe injury sustained while facing Jasprit Bumrah in the nets ended his campaign.

Earlier this month, Rayudu announced his retirement from all forms of the game.