India remains undefeated in the league stage of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023, boasting an impressive record of nine consecutive wins.
The spotlight now shifts to the highly anticipated semi-final showdown against New Zealand scheduled for Wednesday, November 15.
Eager to overcome the setback of the 2019 World Cup semi-final defeat to the same opponent, India aims to secure a spot in the final. Captain Rohit Sharma, emphasizing the team’s forward-looking approach, downplays dwelling on past glories such as the 1983 triumph under Kapil Dev and the 2011 victory led by MS Dhoni.
Speaking ahead of the semi-final clash, Rohit highlights the team’s focus on the present and continuous improvement. He notes that the current generation of players is more concerned with the challenges at hand than dwelling on historical achievements.
“The beauty of this team lies in their focus on the present. They are not fixated on past World Cup wins. The players are immersed in the current scenario, concentrating on becoming better individuals and contributing to the team’s success,” Rohit states.
Acknowledging New Zealand’s consistent performance in recent World Cups, Rohit praises their disciplined and strategic approach to the game. He recognizes the Kiwis as a team that comprehensively understands their opposition, having faced India in various tournaments and stages.
“New Zealand is undoubtedly one of the most disciplined teams we’ve encountered. They play smart cricket, understanding their opponents well. We have closely observed their strengths and weaknesses, as with all teams, and we are prepared to face the challenges they present,” Rohit adds.
As India gears up for the semi-final clash, the focus remains firmly on the present, with the team’s determination to excel and set the stage for future successes. The disciplined and strategic approach of both teams promises an exciting and fiercely contested match.
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