India dominated the World Cup Semi-Final against New Zealand, securing a convincing victory by 70 runs and confirming their place in the ICC men’s ODI World Cup final. Opting to bat first after winning the toss, India posted an imposing total of 397/4 in 50 overs. Virat Kohli showcased his sensational form by slamming his 50th ODI century, surpassing the legendary Sachin Tendulkar in terms of the most ODI tons. Shreyas Iyer’s explosive innings of 105 off 70 balls complemented Kohli’s performance.
Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill provided an explosive start, contributing 71 runs in 8.2 overs. However, Rohit fell for a brisk 47, and Gill, after an elegant display, had to retire hurt at 79 due to cramps. Mohammed Shami shone with the ball, taking seven wickets and making crucial breakthroughs from the very first ball of the match.
New Zealand, in response, faced early setbacks with Shami dismissing Rachin Ravindra. Kane Williamson and Daryl Mitchell then steadied the innings with a 150-plus partnership for the third wicket. Despite a dropped catch by Shami, Williamson fell for 69, and Shami continued to make an impact by trapping Tom Latham LBW for a duck.
Daryl Mitchell, who scored a century earlier, partnered with Glenn Phillips, adding over 50 runs for the fifth wicket. Jasprit Bumrah removed Phillips for 41 in the 43rd over, and Kuldeep Yadav dismissed Mark Chapman in the following over. Shami further shattered New Zealand’s hopes by dismissing Daryl Mitchell for an impressive 134 in the 46th over, adding two more wickets to his tally and sealing India’s commanding victory.