‘Bas ek kadam dur hain hum’ – Fans react as India beat New Zealand in high scoring ODI World Cup 2023 semi-final clash by 70 runs

Maintaining their victorious streak in the ODI World Cup 2023, India overcame their knockout challenges against New Zealand. The Men in Blue secured a 70-run victory at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium on November 15, securing their spot in the final of the 2023 World Cup.

Talking about the match, India won the toss and opted to bat first. The innings began with India asserting dominance from the first over, putting the Kiwis on the defensive. Indian skipper continued to bat with his aggressive approach and provided a brilliant start to the team. 

Despite a brilliant catch by Kane Williamson dismissing India’s captain after a quick 47 runs in 29 balls, Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli seized control. Gill’s aggressive play ceased at 79 due to Mumbai’s heat, setting the stage for a monumental partnership with Kohli. After that, Kohli took the innings forward with Shreyas Iyer.

The duo demonstrated flawless synergy, accumulating consistent boundaries. Kohli achieved a historic milestone, surpassing former legend Sachin Tendulkar with his 50th ODI hundred, igniting celebrations at Wankhede Stadium. The Kohli-Iyer partnership became pivotal, with Iyer showcasing power-hitting prowess. His departure after a remarkable 105-run knock, supported by KL Rahul, contributed to India’s imposing total of 397 runs. 

Brilliant bowling performance by Mohammed Shami

Chasing the target, Mohammed Shami produced an excellent seam bowling in the powerplay and nipped out both the New Zealand openers Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra who were caught behind. The Kiwis fought back valiantly, courtesy of a superb 181-run stand between Daryl Mitchell and skipper Kane Williamson. 

India were a bit sloppy – leaked extras, few misfields, Rahul broke the stumps before collecting the ball and Shami put down a sitter as well. India were under pressure for the first time in this tournament and Shami redeemed in style. He provided the key breakthrough by removing Williamson and trapping Tom Latham lbw in the same over. 

New Zealand were in the hunt as Mitchell and Glenn Phillips forged a half-ton partnership. Kuldeep Yadav and Jasprit Bumrah bowled four superb overs where they picked 2 wickets for just 20 runs. And then, Shami came back to produce the killer blow. Dismissed Mitchell, the centurion, and picked wickets for fun to finish with a seven-fer.

Here’s how fans reacted:

https://twitter.com/TasneemKhatai/status/1724834416076390412