In a high-stakes encounter, Team India is just two steps away from securing the coveted World Cup 2023 title. The stage is set for the first semi-final showdown against New Zealand at Wankhade Stadium, Mumbai, today. For India, this match is not only a do-or-die battle for a spot in the final but also a golden opportunity to avenge the heartbreak of the 2019 World Cup semi-final defeat.
Riding on the momentum of recent victories, Team India is poised for a fierce contest. However, New Zealand has historically proven to be a formidable opponent for India in ICC knockout matches. With 117 matches played between the two teams, India has secured victory in 59 and faced defeat in 50, with seven matches having no result. Notably, India has never emerged victorious against New Zealand in the knockout stage of an ICC event, with defeats in the 2019 World Cup semi-finals, the 2021 World Test Championship final, and the 2000 Champions Trophy final. In the group stage of the current World Cup, India triumphed over New Zealand by four wickets, ending a 20-year drought of victories against the Kiwis. Virat Kohli, the linchpin of India’s batting lineup, has amassed 594 runs in the tournament, while Rachin Ravindra from New Zealand has been a standout performer with 565 runs.
The Wankhade Stadium pitch, known for its batting-friendly conditions, played host to India’s group stage match against Sri Lanka, where India posted an imposing total of 356 and bowled out Sri Lanka for 55. While chasing can be challenging due to the evening swing, batsmen find support as the ball ages. Winning the toss and opting to bat first is often the preferred strategy at this venue.
Zimbabwe’s national player and coach, Tasmin Granger, shared insights on the upcoming match, noting that India’s flawless record of 9 wins in the tournament contrasts with New Zealand’s 5 victories in 9 matches. India’s batting prowess is evident, having scored 2523 runs at an impressive average of 56.30 in 9 innings. However, New Zealand, with 2537 runs at an average of 43.89, poses a potent challenge. As the stage is set for this crucial clash, all eyes are on the battle between India’s dominant bowling attack, which leads in wickets, economy rate, average, and strike rate, and New Zealand’s formidable batting lineup. The face-off between Tim Southee and Virat Kohli promises to be a highlight, adding an extra layer of anticipation to this World Cup semi-final.
