India Initiates Batting in the First Semi-Final
India’s captain, Rohit Sharma, made the strategic decision to bat first in Mumbai, confident in his team’s ability to control the game and deliver their best performance.
Both teams maintained their line-ups as they prepared for the crucial semi-final match.
India’s Unblemished Journey in the Home World Cup
India’s performance in the home Cricket World Cup has been nothing short of exemplary. The team has demonstrated a collective effort with each player contributing significantly. The top-order has consistently delivered high scores, supported by a proficient middle-order.
Whether it’s the pacers or the spinners, all have mastered the playing conditions. Rohit’s philosophy of focusing on the present seems to be paying off for the team.
However, they face a challenging opponent in New Zealand, a team that has often triumphed over the Men in Blue in ICC events. This was evident in their previous World Cup knockout match, where New Zealand narrowly defeated India, despite a valiant effort from Ravindra Jadeja and MS Dhoni.
New Zealand’s Rollercoaster Journey in the World Cup
New Zealand’s World Cup journey has been a blend of highs and lows. Despite initial injuries, the team managed to maintain a steady performance. However, a loss to India in Dharamsala was followed by a string of four consecutive defeats. They managed to break this losing streak with a decisive victory against Sri Lanka, securing their place in the knockout stage.
The spotlight is now on their star players to step up against the undefeated tournament hosts, India.
Team Line-ups
India’s Playing XI:
Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wk), Suryakumar Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj.
New Zealand’s Playing XI:
Devon Conway, Rachin Ravindra, Kane Williamson (c), Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham (wk), Glenn Phillips, Mark Chapman, Mitchell Santner, Tim Southee, Lockie Ferguson, Trent Boult.