In a high-stakes World Cup semifinal clash against India at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium, Daryl Mitchell etched his name in history books by notching a sensational century, surpassing Brendon McCullum’s all-time record for most sixes in a single ODI World Cup edition.
New Zealand staged a remarkable comeback while pursuing a daunting 398-run target against India. Despite the early setbacks of losing two key wickets, Kane Williamson and Daryl Mitchell combined forces, constructing a breathtaking partnership for the third wicket, adding crucial runs to keep the Kiwi hopes alive.
India had set a mammoth target of 397 runs, fueled by outstanding centuries from Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer, marking the highest total ever posted in a World Cup knockout match. This imposing score exerted immense pressure on New Zealand, demanding a substantial start to their innings.
Daryl Mitchell and Williamson’s Heroics: A Spectacular 181-Run Partnership
With both openers, Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra, departing within the initial eight overs and just 39 runs on the board, Daryl Mitchell and the prolific Kane Williamson stepped up to the challenge. Their exceptional 181-run partnership for the third wicket proved pivotal, with Mitchell showcasing his prowess by securing his second century of the tournament.
Daryl Mitchell’s Magnificence: A Rapid Century and Record-Smashing Sixes
Daryl Mitchell’s century was a display of sheer brilliance, achieved in a mere 85 balls, laced with eight boundaries and five towering sixes. Among his impressive hits was a colossal 107-meter six off Ravindra Jadeja, marking the longest of the tournament. Notably, Mitchell surpassed Brendon McCullum’s record for most sixes in a World Cup edition for New Zealand, amassing a staggering 20 sixes in the ongoing tournament, eclipsing McCullum’s previous record of 17, set during the 2015 edition.
The 32-year-old versatile batting all-rounder’s feat of rewriting the record books adds another chapter to his remarkable journey in the tournament, solidifying his impact as a key player for New Zealand on this grand stage.
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