ICC ODI World Cup 2023: Kohli’s Century and Shami’s Brilliance – India’s Masterful Performance Against New Zealand Earns Them a Spot in Final

Varad Bhatkhande

Mumbai, 15th November 2023: In a thrilling semi-final clash between India and New Zealand at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium, India emerged victorious by a margin of 70 runs, securing their spot in the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 final. This victory not only underscored India’s exceptional batting, marked by Virat Kohli’s record-breaking innings but also showcased a great bowling performance, with Mohammad Shami playing a pivotal role and earning the well-deserved man of the match award.

India won the toss and opted to bat, setting the stage for a high-stakes encounter. Rohit Sharma, displaying his prowess at Wankhede, provided a solid start with a rapid 47 off 29 balls. However, Tim Southee managed to dismiss Sharma, seeking redemption for India’s early setbacks against New Zealand in the ICC World Cup 2019 semi-final.

Shubman Gill, stabilizing the innings, played a pivotal role with a significant contribution, scoring 80 off 66 balls. It’s noteworthy that he initially retired hurt but made a comeback towards the end of the Indian innings. The highlight of the Indian innings, though, was Virat Kohli’s remarkable century. Kohli reached his 50th ODI century in 106 balls, breaking Sachin Tendulkar’s record of the most ODI hundreds. Kohli’s innings of 117 in 113 balls became a milestone and marked his second century in the tournament.

Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul were instrumental in India’s innings. Iyer posted an impressive 105 in 70 balls, while KL Rahul contributed a brisk 39 not out. With these key performances, India concluded their innings with a commanding total of 398 runs for the loss of three wickets.

Chasing a target of 399 runs, New Zealand’s top order struggled against India’s bowling attack. Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra departed early. Daryl Mitchell and Kane Williamson stabilized the innings, with Mitchell scoring a commendable century in 85 balls.

However, Shami’s brilliance continued, dismissing Williamson and Tom Latham in a single over at a crucial moment. India seized the momentum, restricting New Zealand to 327 runs. Daryl Mitchell’s valiant effort of 134 runs in 119 balls went in vain as India secured a convincing victory.

Defending a substantial total, India’s bowling attack, led by Mohammad Shami, exhibited exceptional prowess. Shami’s relentless efforts yielded a sensational 7-wicket haul, including a crucial 5-wicket spell. This marked Shami’s third 5-wicket haul in the tournament and his second against New Zealand.

The Indian fielding, however, faced some challenges, missing several opportunities to dismiss Kiwi batsmen. Despite this, the bowling unit, backed by economical overs, managed to put significant pressure on New Zealand.

With this victory, India avenged their 2019 World Cup heartbreak against New Zealand. They have now advanced to the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 final, scheduled to take place at Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium. The semi-final 2 between South Africa and Australia at Eden Gardens, Kolkata will determine India’s opponent in the final on November 19th.