India Wins World Cup 2023 Semi Final Against New Zealand

India shattered the longstanding “New Zealand Jinx,” triumphing over the Black Caps by a substantial 70-run margin in the inaugural semi-final of the ICC World Cup 2023 at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium this Wednesday.

The Blues are now poised to face off against the winner of the second semi-final clash between South Africa and Australia, scheduled for November 19 in Ahmedabad.

Mohammad Shami has emerged as a force to be reckoned with in the World Cup, delivering a stellar performance as he claimed a remarkable seven-wicket haul. His exceptional bowling played a pivotal role in dismantling the crucial partnership that threatened to propel the Kiwis to victory.

India set the tone brilliantly as Shami swiftly dismissed both openers within the initial two overs of their defense against a challenging 398-run target. Despite an early setback, the Kiwi skipper Kane Williamson and Daryl Mitchell orchestrated a formidable 184-run partnership, resurrecting the 2019 World Cup runners-up and seemingly securing a prolonged stay at the crease.

While Williamson got a lifeline when dropped on 52 by Shami in the 29th over, the right-handed pacer redeemed himself by dismissing the Kiwi skipper in the 33rd over. Shami’s relentless attack continued as he also claimed the wicket of Tom Latham. The Williamson-led unit succumbed to pressure, ultimately getting all-out for 327 runs.

Mitchell emerged as the top scorer for the Kiwis, displaying resilience with a commendable knock of 134 off 119 deliveries, featuring nine fours and seven sixes.

In their batting innings, India initiated a commanding start, led by Rohit Sharma’s explosive power-hitting during the powerplay. Sharma’s blistering 47 off 29 deliveries, inclusive of eight boundaries and four maximums, set the stage for a formidable innings.

Shubman Gill capitalized on the momentum, forging a strong partnership with Virat Kohli. The duo’s charge continued until Gill, on the verge of a century, had to retire hurt due to cramps, leaving India at 164-1 in 22.4 overs.

Unfazed by the setback, Kohli and Shreyas Iyer crafted a remarkable 163-run partnership, propelling India to a commanding position. The Wankhede Stadium erupted in celebration during the 42nd over when Kohli’s shot towards deep back square leg marked his 50th ODI century, surpassing the legendary Sachin Tendulkar for the most centuries in 50-over cricket.

Kohli departed after a stellar 117 off 113 deliveries, but Iyer continued the onslaught, notching up his second consecutive century in the World Cup with a brilliant 105 off just 70 balls. KL Rahul’s rapid knock of 39 off 29 deliveries, including seven boundaries, in the final stretch propelled India to a formidable total of 397 within the allocated overs.