In a thrilling semi-final match IND vs NZ at the World Cup, India defeated New Zealand by 70 runs to advance to the final unbeaten. India won the toss and elected to bat first, posting a mammoth total of 397/4 thanks to centuries from Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer. Kohli’s century was his 50th in ODIs, a record-breaking feat. New Zealand made a valiant effort in their chase, but they were ultimately undone by India’s bowling attack, which was led by Mohammed Shami’s seven-wicket haul.
IND vs NZ Match Innings
India’s Innings
India’s innings got off to a flying start as Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill put on a quickfire partnership of 65 runs. Gill retired hurt after scoring 79 off 65 balls, but Kohli and Iyer continued to pile on the runs. Kohli reached his fifty off 36 balls and went on to score his first World Cup knockout half-century. He then converted that half-century into a century, breaking Sachin Tendulkar’s record for most ODI tons and becoming the first to 50 centuries in the format. Iyer then raced past 100 in 67 balls, his second consecutive century. KL Rahul smashed 39 in 20 balls as India closed their innings on an imposing 397/4 in 50 overs.
New Zealand’s Innings
New Zealand’s chase got off to a steady start as Kane Williamson and Daryl Mitchell put on a partnership of 124 runs for the second wicket. Both batsmen reached their fifties, but Williamson was dropped by Shami on 52. Shami then injected a double blow to shift the momentum back in India’s favor, dismissing Williamson for 69(73) and then trapping Tom Latham LBW for 0(2). Mitchell, who had already slammed a ton, then held fort with Glenn Phillips and added over 50 runs for the fifth wicket. Bumrah then got rid of Phillips for 41(33) in the 43rd over, and Kuldeep Yadav removed Mark Chapman in the next over.
IND vs NZ: Mohammed Shami’s Seven-Wicket Haul
Mohammed Shami then dented New Zealand’s hopes completely as he removed Daryl Mitchell for 134(119) in the 46th over, also taking his wicket tally to five. Shami continued to wreak havoc on New Zealand’s batting lineup, eventually finishing with figures of 7-100. His performance was the best by an Indian bowler in a World Cup knockout match.
IND vs NZ: India Advances to the Final
India’s victory over New Zealand was a dominant performance that showcased their depth and talent. They are now the only unbeaten team in the tournament and will be looking to continue their winning streak in the final. New Zealand, on the other hand, will be disappointed with their performance, but they can take pride in their fighting spirit. They will now turn their attention to the third-place playoff.