In an exhilarating display of cricket, India stamped their authority in the CWC23 semi-final, showcasing a blend of strategic brilliance and individual prowess. The stage at Mumbai’s iconic cricket ground was set for a memorable clash, and the Indian team did not disappoint. Spearheaded by Virat Kohli’s masterclass with the bat and Mohammed Shami’s spellbinding bowling, India clinched a decisive 70-run victory over New Zealand, marking their entry into the World Cup final.
The match, a perfect amalgamation of high-pressure moments and exceptional skill, was a testament to India’s dominance in the tournament. Kohli, with his record-setting 50th ODI century, not only broke new ground but also infused the Indian innings with a sense of invincibility. Complementing his efforts, Shami’s sensational seven-wicket haul dismantled the Kiwi batting lineup, setting the tone for a triumphant conclusion. The game unfolded as a narrative of India’s cricketing excellence, leaving fans and critics alike in awe of their performance.
Match Overview
The semi-final clash, held at the heart of Mumbai, witnessed India setting a formidable score and restricting New Zealand with decisive bowling.
India vs New Zealand – 1st Semi-Final Highlights:
- India’s Score: 397/4 (50 overs);
- New Zealand’s Score: 327/10 (48.5 overs);
- Result: India won by 70 runs.
Kohli’s Record-Breaking Knock
Virat Kohli, one of India’s cricketing stalwarts, eclipsed Sachin Tendulkar’s record by scoring his 50th one-day international century. Kohli’s 117 runs were crucial in building India’s massive total. Alongside him, Shreyas Iyer’s swift 105 and Shubman Gill’s resilient 80* further bolstered India’s batting strength.
Shami’s Unforgettable Bowling Spell
Mohammed Shami took center stage with his bowling prowess, claiming an impressive seven wickets for 57 runs. His performance not only curtailed New Zealand’s chase but also set a new benchmark for Indian bowlers in one-day internationals.
“I still believe in pitching it up and getting wickets with the new ball. The last two World Cups, we lost in the semis. Who knows when or if we’ll get a chance, so this was one chance we didn’t want to let go” – Mohammed Shami
New Zealand’s Resistance
Despite facing a daunting target, New Zealand showed resilience. Daryl Mitchell’s outstanding 134, surpassing his previous ODI best, was a highlight for the Kiwis. However, their efforts fell short against India’s strategic bowling attack.
Key Moments in the Match
The match was punctuated by several pivotal moments that ultimately shaped its outcome. From Rohit Sharma’s explosive start to Virat Kohli’s historic century, each milestone added to India’s formidable total. Shreyas Iyer’s rapid century further intensified the momentum, while Shubman Gill’s unbeaten innings solidified India’s dominant position. On the bowling front, Shami’s early breakthroughs threw New Zealand off balance, and his continued assault on the wickets kept the pressure mounting. These key instances not only swung the game in India’s favor but also highlighted the depth and versatility of the Indian team, showcasing their capability to seize control at crucial junctures of the game.
India’s Batting Milestones:
- Rohit Sharma’s Quickfire 47;
- Virat Kohli’s Record 117;
- Shreyas Iyer’s Rapid Century;
- Shubman Gill’s Unbeaten 80.
New Zealand’s Fall of Wickets:
- Early Setbacks: Devon Conway (30), Rachin Ravindra (39);
- Middle Order Collapse: Kane Williamson (69), Tom Latham (0);
- Mitchell’s Lone Fight: Daryl Mitchell (134).
Playing XI
India: Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (WK), Suryakumar Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj
New Zealand: Devon Conway, Rachin Ravindra, Kane Williamson (C), Daryl Mitchell, Mark Chapman, Glenn Phillips, Tom Latham (WK), Mitchell Santner, Lockie Ferguson, Tim Southee, Trent Boult
India’s March to the Final
“We knew we had to pull something from up our sleeves. We tried everything and Mohammed Shami was brilliant” – Rohit Sharma, India Captain
India’s well-rounded performance in the semi-final sets the stage for their pursuit of a third World Cup title. Their next challenge will be against either Australia or South Africa in the much-anticipated final in Ahmedabad.
