In a thrilling semifinal clash, Mohammed Shami showcased his brilliance by claiming his third five-wicket haul of the ICC Men's World Cup 2023, securing India's victory against New Zealand. Virat Kohli, meanwhile, made history with his 50th century in ODIs, and Shreyas Iyer added to the spectacle with a second consecutive century. This remarkable performance propelled India into the tournament final, setting the stage for an epic showdown.
Shami's heroics began with crucial breakthroughs, dismissing openers Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra early on. Returning later to remove Kane Williamson and Tom Latham in a single over, Shami played a pivotal role in stifling New Zealand's momentum after a formidable partnership between Williamson and Daryl Mitchell.
Kohli's record-breaking century, surpassing Sachin Tendulkar's record for the most ODI centuries, laid the foundation for India's imposing total of 397/4 in 50 overs. Shreyas Iyer complemented Kohli's feat with a blazing century, contributing to a commanding partnership. Shami's exceptional bowling later ensured India successfully defended their total, restricting New Zealand to 327 runs in 48.5 overs.
The Wankhede Stadium reverberated with patriotic chants as Shami, with figures of 7-57 in 9.5 overs, orchestrated India's triumph. The victory secured India's spot in the World Cup final, where they would face the winner of the second semifinal between Australia and South Africa at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata.
Shami's impact extended beyond the semifinal, marking a consistent trend in the tournament. His inclusion in the team, prompted by Hardik Pandya's injury, proved to be a masterstroke. Shami's earlier performances against New Zealand at Dharamsala (5-54) and Sri Lanka at the Wankhede Stadium (5-18) showcased his ability to deliver under pressure.
The semifinal witnessed a spirited fight from New Zealand, especially Daryl Mitchell, who scored a valiant century (134) and forged a substantial partnership with captain Kane Williamson. However, Shami's timely interventions and India's relentless bowling attack eventually tilted the game in their favor.
As the final beckons, India, a two-time World Cup winner, will look to carry this momentum forward. The anticipation builds as cricket enthusiasts eagerly await the outcome of the second semifinal and the grand finale scheduled in Ahmedabad on Sunday (Nov 19).
Shami's exceptional performance, Kohli's milestone century, and Iyer's explosive batting display have etched this semifinal clash into the annals of World Cup history. The Indian team's resilience and determination, coupled with individual brilliance, have set the stage for an exciting conclusion to the ICC Men's World Cup 2023.
Brief scores:
India 397/4 in 50 overs (Virat Kohli 117, Shreyas Iyer 105, Shubman Gill 80 not out; Rohit Sharma 47; KL Rahul 39 not out; Tim Southee 3-100)
New Zealand 327 all out in 48.5 overs (Kane Williamson 69, Daryl Mitchell 134, Glenn Phillips 41; Mohammed Shami 7-57)
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