Ahead of the first semi-final match in the ongoing ODI World Cup 2023 between India and New Zealand at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Wednesday, Kiwi skipper Kane Williamson praised the ‘Men in Blue,’ stating that they have been exceptional in the extravagant tournament.
During the pre-match press conference, Williamson mentioned that every team in the tournament is tricky. ‘In this tournament, every team is a tricky one. India has been exceptional. We knew that on our good day, if we played good cricket, we gave ourselves a good chance,’ said Williamson.
Speaking about the upcoming match, he added that playing against the host nation will be great and a tough challenge for them. ‘These occasions are special. It is great to play against the host nation. It is going to be a really tough challenge. As a team, we are focusing on our strengths,’ he added.
When asked about Suryakumar Yadav, Williamson praised the 33-year-old Indian cricketer, calling him an amazing player. ‘Suryakumar Yadav is an amazing player,’ he added.
The New Zealand skipper confirmed that all 15 players in the Kiwi squad are fit and can be part of the playing eleven. ‘In the squad of 15, everyone is fit, which is a good sign.’ Talking about the last time India faced New Zealand in the ODI World Cup 2023, he added that it was a great game when they played in the league stage, but the upcoming match will be different. ‘It was a great game when we played them in the pool stage, but it is a different game. It is about how you want to express yourself as a team. It is a big part of the challenge,’ he added.
The last time the two teams faced each other, India won by four wickets, and Mohammed Shami was named the ‘Player of the Match’ after he bagged a five-wicket haul.”
