In a spectacular showdown at the ODI World Cup, host nation India triumphed over New Zealand in the first semi-final, securing their place in the final battle in Ahmedabad. The clash marked a redemption for India, avenging the heartbreak of 2019 when New Zealand dashed their hopes in the semi-finals.
Opting to bat first after winning the toss, India showcased their batting prowess by posting an impressive total of 397 runs for the loss of four wickets. New Zealand, in response, could only manage 327 runs before losing all their wickets.
This victory propels India into the ICC ODI World Cup final after a 12-year hiatus, with the team having claimed the prestigious title twice before. Notable individual achievements added to the glory, as Mohammed Shami etched his name in history by becoming the fastest bowler to reach 50 wickets in the ICC Cricket World Cup, achieving this milestone in just 17 matches during the semi-final clash against New Zealand.
In an interview on the Dafa News Cricket Show, Zimbabwe national player and coach Tasmin Granger highlighted Shami’s exceptional feat, surpassing the previous record held by Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc. Granger also acknowledged Indian captain Virat Kohli’s historic achievement, as he notched up his 50th century in ODI Internationals, surpassing the legendary Sachin Tendulkar’s record of 49 centuries.
The anticipation now builds for the ICC ODI World Cup final, where India will face the winner of the second semi-final between South Africa and Australia.
The nation awaits another potential moment of cricketing glory as India seeks to add another World Cup title to its illustrious cricketing history.