The Indian cricket team is on a winning streak, having secured victories in nine consecutive matches and is now gearing up to clash against New Zealand in the semi-finals at Mumbai’s prestigious Wankhede Stadium.
Their last encounter in a World Cup semi-final was in 2019, where New Zealand emerged triumphant, dashing India’s aspirations for the final.
However, in this edition of the World Cup, India has displayed exceptional form, maintaining an undefeated record, which adds an extra layer of anticipation to this upcoming match against New Zealand.
New Zealand faces a tough challenge in stopping India’s unbeaten streak. There might be few changes in the Indian team, with the possibility of Ravichandran Ashwin joining due to more left-handed batsmen in the Kiwi squad.
Ashwin might replace Suryakumar Yadav, who has contributed significantly to India’s victories with his stylish play. Whether Ashwin will be the sixth bowling option remains uncertain after Hardik Pandya’s injury left India with five bowlers. However, Ashwin’s experience on a bigger stage favors his inclusion.
Probable Indian squad against New Zealand: Rohit Sharma (captain), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Lokesh Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja, Suryakumar Yadav/Ravichandran Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammad Shami, and Mohammad Siraj.
India made history by winning all their league stage matches for the first time in the World Cup’s history. In their recent match against the Netherlands, India scored a massive 410 runs for the loss of 4 wickets.
Shreyas Iyer and Lokesh Rahul’s centuries played a pivotal role in India’s ninth win. Iyer scored an unbeaten 128, while Rahul contributed 102 runs.
The Netherlands managed 250 runs in response to the daunting 411-run target. Despite winning only two out of nine matches, the Netherlands, led by Scott Edwards, surprised cricket fans by defeating strong teams like South Africa and Bangladesh.