ICC Cricket World Cup 2023

The controversy sparked speculation that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had, in consultation with the local curator and Indian team management, changed the pitch to one already used for two matches.

Beckham, currently on a visit to India as a UNICEF goodwill ambassador, enjoyed the cricket match alongside Tendulkar.

All Sharma would say was that the surface was "a little on the slower side", adding, "whatever we do, we have to do it well".

Maharaj now commands a formidable 726 rating points, slightly ahead of Siraj, who holds 723 rating points.

This remarkable achievement saw Rohit surpass West Indies legend Chris Gayle's record for the most sixes in World Cups. Despite falling for 47, he played a crucial role in establishing a formidable 71-run opening partnership with Shubman Gill in just 50 balls.

Sehwag emphasized the importance of playing fearless cricket, urging the team to focus on giving their best without being preoccupied with the eventual outcome.

In the lead-up to the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2023, Williamson, recuperating from a severe knee injury, spent almost seven months on the sidelines. His comeback showcased resilience, contributing an unbeaten 78 in New Zealand's dominant eight-wicket triumph over Bangladesh during the 2023 World Cup league stage in Chennai.

India are in great form having qualified for the semifinals with an all-win record while New Zealand have a tremendous record in ICC ODI events, having reached the fifth successive semifinal -- nine times in 13 editions.

Two main factors contribute to this perception. Firstly, despite consistent semifinal and final appearances, the Black Caps are yet to clinch their maiden ICC title.

Despite being tagged as "chokers," the Black Caps have reached the semifinals of nine out of the 13 Men's ODI World Cups and four times in the T20 World Cup.