India has advanced to the final of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 (CWC23) by defeating New Zealand. Virat Kohli, Mohammed Shami, and Shreyas Iyer played pivotal roles in this historic victory.
Virat Kohli achieved a remarkable milestone, becoming the first player in One Day International cricket history to score 50 centuries. His brilliant innings contributed to India’s commanding total of 397/4, marking their return to the World Cup final for the first time since 2014.
Shami showcased exceptional bowling prowess, finishing with outstanding figures of 7/57, making him the tournament’s leading wicket-taker with 24 wickets at an impressive average of 9.13.
Iyer’s spectacular century, achieved in just 67 balls, propelled India to set the highest-ever total in a Men’s Cricket World Cup semi-final. The Indian team’s strong batting display, including contributions from Shubman Gill, Rohit Sharma, and KL Rahul, set the stage for a daunting target of 398 for New Zealand.
Despite a strong start by New Zealand’s openers, Shami’s crucial breakthroughs disrupted their momentum. Daryl Mitchell’s valiant 134 and Kane Williamson’s half-century kept the Kiwis in the game, but Shami’s consistent performance, including a crucial wicket of Williamson, proved decisive.
Ravindra Jadeja’s brilliant fielding further tilted the game in India’s favor, with a hat-trick of catches that ended any hopes of a miraculous New Zealand comeback. Shami’s final burst secured two more wickets, solidifying his position as the tournament’s leading wicket-taker and sealing India’s ruthless victory.
Opting to bat first, Rohit Sharma’s aggressive approach set the tone for India’s innings. Despite Gill’s unfortunate departure due to cramps, the batting lineup, led by Kohli and later Iyer, continued to score runs consistently.
Kohli’s record-breaking century, coupled with Iyer’s explosive innings and late contributions from KL Rahul, propelled India to a formidable total. With this victory, India now awaits the winner of the South Africa vs. Australia semi-final for the ultimate showdown in the Cricket World Cup final.
