As we hurtle towards the grand finale of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023, the anticipation surrounding the question of which team will clinch the coveted title has soared to unparalleled heights. Unfolding since October 5 with a roster of 10 formidable teams, the quadrennial cricket spectacle has now distilled into a captivating faceoff among the final four contenders vying for a coveted spot in the semi-finals.
In the midst of the whirlwind of surprises and upsets that have defined the narrative of the 2023 ODI World Cup, one indisputable truth stands tall – India’s unwavering dominance. The host nation has etched an indelible mark by emerging triumphant in all nine Group Stage matches, a staggering feat that solidifies its unblemished record in the preliminary rounds, keeping cricket enthusiasts perched on the edge of their seats.
In a groundbreaking achievement, India has made history by being the first team to secure a coveted spot in the semi-finals. Their victory over Sri Lanka at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium on November 2 set the tone for an exciting progression. Following suit, South Africa and Australia also clinched their places in the highly anticipated knockout stage of the World Cup.
India’s dominance continued to unfold with a resounding victory over South Africa at Kolkata’s iconic Eden Gardens on November 5. This win not only extended their flawless winning streak but also guaranteed their undisputed reign at the top of the Group Stage table. No other team could match their points tally, solidifying India’s unassailable position as table-toppers as they confidently stride into the semi-finals. India’s journey to glory is marked by unparalleled prowess and an unwavering determination for victory.
On the contrasting front, Australia and South Africa showcased their cricketing prowess, tallying up seven victories each and firmly securing the second and third spots in the rankings. Meanwhile, the battle for the elusive fourth and final ticket to the semi-finals evolved into a riveting three-way tussle, with New Zealand, Pakistan, and Afghanistan fervently competing for the coveted spot in the knockout stages.
Ultimately, New Zealand emerged triumphant, claiming the slot and setting the stage for a high-stakes showdown against India, the top-ranked team according to the tournament structure. In the parallel narrative, the second and third-placed teams, Australia and South Africa, are slated to engage in a fierce clash in the second semi-final of the 2023 ODI World Cup.
As the cricketing spectacle intensifies, the world awaits with bated breath to witness which teams will etch their names into the annals of cricketing history and secure a spot in the highly anticipated grand finale. The drama, excitement, and unpredictability of the World Cup continue to captivate fans globally as the tournament hurtles towards its thrilling climax.
Now, turning our attention to the upcoming clash, here’s the comprehensive rundown on India’s semi-final showdown in the 2023 ODI World Cup against New Zealand. From the date and venue to the anticipated squad representing India, and the broadcasting details, we’ve got you covered with all the essential information you need to gear up for this crucial fixture. Stay tuned as the cricketing world eagerly anticipates the unfolding drama on the pitch, and we break down the key details to ensure you don’t miss a moment of the action.
WHERE IS THE VENUE FOR INDIA’S SEMI-FINAL MATCH IN THE 2023 ODI WORLD CUP?
In accordance with the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 schedule, the stage is set for an intense showdown as India takes on New Zealand in the first semi-final. The highly anticipated clash is scheduled for Wednesday, 15 November, and the cricketing spectacle will unfold at the illustrious Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, adding a touch of grandeur to this pivotal moment in the tournament.
WHERE CAN FANS CATCH THE LIVE BROADCAST OF INDIA’S 2023 ODI WORLD CUP SEMI-FINAL MATCH?
Cricket enthusiasts in India can witness the gripping semi-final clash featuring India in the ODI World Cup 2023 on the Star Sports Network and Disney+ Hotstar. These platforms serve as the official broadcasters for the tournament in this region, ensuring fans don’t miss a single moment of the action whether they prefer traditional television viewing or opt for the digital experience on Disney+ Hotstar.
WHAT IS THE PITCH REPORT FOR THE IND VS NZ SEMI-FINAL IN THE 2023 WORLD CUP AT WANKHEDE STADIUM?
In the context of the upcoming IND vs NZ semi-final in the 2023 World Cup, here’s an overview of the pitch conditions at the Wankhede Stadium. Historically, this iconic stadium in Mumbai has earned a reputation for hosting high-scoring encounters. The pitch itself is considered a batting paradise, featuring small boundaries that facilitate easy fours and sixes.
However, bowlers, especially spinners, can find some assistance from the pitch. The conditions tend to favor spin, adding an intriguing dimension to the game. Nevertheless, the smaller dimensions of the boundaries might pose a challenge for slower bowlers. As both teams prepare to battle it out, the unique characteristics of the Wankhede pitch promise an exciting and dynamic contest between bat and ball in this crucial semi-final showdown.
INDIA VS NEW ZEALAND HEAD TO HEAD
Despite India’s formidable form and the home advantage in the ongoing spectacle, caution is warranted. The Blackcaps have been a historical nemesis for India in ICC events, capable of upsetting even the most favorable situations. The upcoming semi-final, therefore, carries an air of unpredictability, adding an extra layer of anticipation and drama to the clash.
India and New Zealand have crossed paths in three ICC knockout matches, with the encounters spanning different formats. The first meeting took place in the final of the ICC Knockout 2000 tournament, where the Stephen Fleming-led New Zealand side secured victory by four wickets, marking a setback for India. The two teams faced each other again in the semi-finals of the 2019 World Cup, and once more, the result tilted in favor of the Kiwis.
The most recent ICC knockout clash between the two nations occurred in the final of the inaugural World Test Championship, concluding with India facing disappointment once again as they succumbed to an eight-wicket defeat. This history sets the stage for a riveting narrative as India and New Zealand prepare for their upcoming encounter in the 2023 ODI World Cup semi-final.
| India | Versus | New Zealand |
| 117 | Matches | 117 |
| 59 | Won | 50 |
| 50 | Lost | 59 |
| 1 | Tied | 1 |
| 7 | No Result | 7 |
| India | Versus | New Zealand |
| 10 | Matches | 10 |
| 4 | Won | 5 |
| 5 | Lost | 4 |
| 0 | Tied | 0 |
| 1 | No Result | 1 |
KEY PLAYERS TO LOOK OUT FOR IN THE INDIA VS NEW ZEALAND
Virat Kohli
Virat Kohli, India’s premier batsman, has been a standout performer in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, amassing an impressive total of 594 runs in nine matches. The right-handed maestro boasts an exceptional average of 99, indicative of his remarkable consistency and ability to anchor the innings. Kohli’s strike rate of 88.52 underscores not only his technical finesse but also his capacity to maintain a brisk scoring rate. With two centuries and five half-centuries, including a top score of 103 not out, Kohli has demonstrated his proficiency in converting starts into substantial innings. In the last five matches of the tournament, he has been in scintillating form, accumulating 335 runs at an average of 83.75 and a strike rate of 87.24, further solidifying his pivotal role as a linchpin in India’s batting lineup. As India gears up for the semi-final, all eyes will be on Kohli to continue his stellar contributions and guide the team to success.
Rachin Ravindra
Rachin Ravindra, New Zealand’s dynamic left-handed opener, has emerged as a formidable force in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, amassing a prolific total of 565 runs in nine matches. Ravindra boasts an outstanding average of 70.63, a testament to his consistent and impactful contributions at the top of the order. The southpaw’s aggressive style is reflected in his impressive strike rate of 108.45, ensuring that he not only accumulates runs but does so at a brisk pace. With three centuries and two half-centuries, including a top score of 123 not out, Ravindra has proven to be a dependable run-scorer for New Zealand. In the last five matches of the tournament, he has continued his stellar form, crafting 350 runs at an average of 70 and an impressive strike rate of 109.38. As New Zealand prepares for the semi-final, Ravindra’s explosive batting and recent consistency position him as a key player capable of making a significant impact in the crucial encounter.
Jasprit Bumrah
Jasprit Bumrah, the spearhead of India’s pace attack, has been a potent force in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, scalping an impressive tally of 17 wickets in nine matches. The right-arm fast bowler has showcased his knack for dismantling opposition batting line-ups with a notable three-wicket haul to his credit. Bumrah’s stellar performances are underscored by an outstanding average of 15.64, emphasizing his effectiveness in taking crucial wickets for the team. With an economy rate of 3.65, Bumrah has demonstrated not only his ability to strike at regular intervals but also his prowess in maintaining control over the run flow.
His best performance in the tournament came with a notable 4/39, highlighting his capability to deliver impactful spells under pressure. As India braces for the semi-final, Bumrah’s lethal bowling and consistent wicket-taking form position him as a key player who can play a pivotal role in disrupting the opposition’s batting rhythm and shaping the outcome of the crucial encounter.
Mohammed Shami
Mohammed Shami, a cornerstone of India’s fast-bowling artillery, has been nothing short of sensational in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, claiming a remarkable tally of 16 wickets in just five matches. The right-arm fast bowler has not only been prolific but also showcased his ability to deliver match-defining performances with two impressive five-wicket hauls to his name.
Shami’s extraordinary average of 9.56 attests to his effectiveness in consistently making breakthroughs for the team. With an economy rate of 4.78, he combines wicket-taking ability with economical bowling, making him a formidable force in the tournament. His standout performance came with a remarkable 5/18, showcasing his capability to dismantle opposition batting line-ups with ease.
As India prepares for the crucial semi-final, Shami’s exceptional form and knack for taking wickets make him a key player who can provide the team with crucial breakthroughs and control the flow of runs. His presence in the bowling lineup adds a potent dimension to India’s arsenal, and his performances will undoubtedly be pivotal in shaping the outcome of the high-stakes encounter.
Mitchell Santner
Mitchell Santner, the slow left-arm orthodox bowler for New Zealand, has been a significant force in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, claiming a noteworthy total of 16 wickets across nine matches. Santner’s ability to control the game with his spin has been evident in his impressive hauls, including a notable five-wicket performance and a three-wicket effort.
With an average of 24.87, Santner has showcased his consistency in providing breakthroughs for the Kiwis. Operating with an economy rate of 4.81, he combines wicket-taking prowess with the ability to restrict opposition batsmen, making him a valuable asset for the New Zealand side.
Santner’s standout performance in the tournament came with an impressive 5/59, underscoring his capability to turn the game in his team’s favor. As New Zealand gears up for the semi-final, Santner’s spin wizardry and knack for taking crucial wickets position him as a key player who can play a pivotal role in shaping the outcome of the crucial encounter.
INDIAN SQUAD OVERVIEW IN THE 2023 ICC WORLD CUP
India is currently basking in the glory of a remarkable winning streak in the ICC ODI World Cup, matching their joint-best-ever performance from the 2003 ICC Cricket World Cup, where they clinched victory in eight consecutive matches. The 2023 edition has seen India’s cricketing prowess on full display, as they have not only triumphed in all their matches but have done so with comprehensive and commanding performances. A key factor contributing to India’s consistency is their strategic approach to the playing XI; minimal changes are made unless circumstances dictate otherwise. This stability in the lineup has played a pivotal role in maintaining India’s dominant form throughout the tournament, setting the stage for a formidable campaign as they progress towards the business end of the competition.
Hardik Pandya’s absence from the squad looms large as a potential significant factor for India, given his pivotal role as one of the key players and the team’s vice-captain. Unfortunately, the all-rounder suffered a setback by tearing his left ankle ligament earlier in the 2023 ODI World Cup, leading to his unfortunate exclusion from the remainder of the tournament. Pandya’s absence leaves a notable void in the Indian lineup, not only in terms of his dynamic contributions with both bat and ball but also in his leadership role within the team. His injury is undoubtedly a substantial setback, and India will need to recalibrate their strategies to cope with the absence of this influential player as they navigate through the crucial stages of the competition.
Suryakumar Yadav has stepped into the crucial number 5 spot in India’s batting lineup. Despite the adjustment in the composition, India has persisted with a lineup featuring just five bowlers. Fortunately, the silver lining for the hosts lies in the exceptional form displayed by all five bowlers, rendering them one of the most formidable and lethal bowling sides in the tournament. The collective prowess of the bowling unit, coupled with Yadav’s contributions with the bat, has enabled India to maintain their competitive edge, showcasing adaptability and resilience in the face of unexpected challenges in the 2023 ODI World Cup.
Shubman Gill’s return after recovering from dengue has reshaped India’s opening combination, and he has seamlessly partnered with Rohit Sharma since the pivotal match against Pakistan on October 14. The dynamic duo has added a new dimension to India’s batting lineup. Meanwhile, the linchpin of India’s bowling unit, Mohammed Shami, has played a crucial role since his inclusion in the 2023 World Cup squad.
In the ICC World Cup 1992, despite Sachin Tendulkar’s exceptional innings of 84 runs, New Zealand emerged victorious against India in a closely contested match. Mark Greatbatch played a pivotal role for the Kiwis, punishing the Indian bowlers and contributing significantly to their 4-wicket win. India’s Manoj Prabhakar stood out as the lone successful bowler in that encounter, claiming 3 wickets. Despite Tendulkar’s brilliant efforts, New Zealand’s effective batting performance, led by Greatbatch, proved decisive in securing the win in this memorable clash from the 1992 World Cup.
Shami’s impactful performances have been highlighted by a remarkable 16-wicket haul, the highest for India in the ongoing World Cup. Notably, he has also etched his name in history by becoming India’s leading wicket-taker in ODI World Cups, amassing an impressive tally of 47 wickets across three editions. As India advances in the tournament, the combination of Gill’s resurgence and Shami’s bowling mastery positions them as key assets in the quest for World Cup glory.
Barring unforeseen circumstances, India is likely to stick with a familiar playing XI for the 2023 ODI World Cup semi-final. The anticipated lineup includes Rohit Sharma as captain, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul as wicket-keeper, Suryakumar Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Shami, and Mohammed Siraj. This cohesive and balanced unit reflects India’s commitment to continuity and stability as they approach the crucial semi-final encounter.
INDIA VS NEW ZEALAND IN THEIR LAST 5 WORLD CUP CLASHES
2023, ICC World Cup
In the latest encounter between India and New Zealand in the ICC World Cup 2023, held at Dharamshala, India managed to overturn the historical dominance held by the Kiwis. Despite carrying the weight of past struggles against New Zealand, India emerged victorious in a hard-fought contest, securing a 4-wicket win. Virat Kohli played a pivotal role, contributing a remarkable innings of 95 runs, while Mohammed Shami delivered a ferocious spell, claiming 5 wickets for 54 runs. This victory showcased India’s ability to overcome challenges and marked a significant turning point in their World Cup campaign.
2019, ICC World Cup Semi Final
The ICC World Cup 2019 semi-finals between India and New Zealand etched a memorable moment in cricket history, marked by the palpable disappointment when MS Dhoni got run out, extinguishing India’s last hope to clinch victory. The Kiwis emerged triumphant in a closely contested match, securing an 18-run win. This heartbreaking loss for India resonated with every cricket fan, and New Zealand went on to face England in a thrilling World Cup final, adding another chapter to the annals of one of the most exciting cricket tournaments of all time.
2003, ICC World Cup
In the ICC World Cup 2003, a gripping encounter unfolded between India and New Zealand, highlighted by the brilliance of India’s pace spearhead, Zaheer Khan. Zaheer delivered a stunning bowling spell, claiming 4 wickets for 42 runs, as India emerged victorious in a low-scoring thriller. New Zealand was restricted to a modest total of 146 runs, setting the stage for a tense chase. Despite losing cricketing legends Sachin Tendulkar and Virender Sehwag early in the innings, India successfully navigated the challenge and secured a crucial win in this memorable World Cup clash. Zaheer Khan’s exceptional performance played a pivotal role in India’s success on that day.
1999, ICC World Cup
In the Super 8 match of the ICC World Cup 1999, New Zealand secured a notable victory against India, led by stellar performances from Matt Horne and Roger Twose. The Kiwi duo played exceptionally well, guiding their team to a 5-wicket win. Despite India’s challenging total, no Indian batter, except for Ajay Jadeja, managed to make a significant impact in that match. Jadeja showcased his brilliance with a magnificent innings, scoring 76 runs. However, New Zealand’s collective effort, particularly the performances of Horne and Twose, proved instrumental in securing the victory in this memorable encounter from the 1999 World Cup.
1992, ICC World Cup
In the ICC World Cup 1992, despite Sachin Tendulkar’s exceptional innings of 84 runs, New Zealand emerged victorious against India in a closely contested match. Mark Greatbatch played a pivotal role for the Kiwis, punishing the Indian bowlers and contributing significantly to their 4-wicket win. India’s Manoj Prabhakar stood out as the lone successful bowler in that encounter, claiming 3 wickets. Despite Tendulkar’s brilliant efforts, New Zealand’s effective batting performance, led by Greatbatch, proved decisive in securing the win in this memorable clash from the 1992 World Cup.