India
New Zealand
Get ready for a showdown at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on November 15th at 2:00 PM as India takes on New Zealand in the first Semi-Final of the ODI World Cup 2023. Brace yourself for a thriller, reminiscent of the 2019 semi-final where New Zealand clinched victory in a nail-biter against India.
Fast forward to 2023, and India's journey has been nothing short of a dream. They aced all 9 group games, topping the table with confidence. Every player has stepped up, contributing to the team's stellar performances. The squad is riding high on confidence and exceptional teamwork.
New Zealand, on the flip side, had a rollercoaster campaign. Starting strong with four consecutive wins, they then faced a tough streak of four losses. Despite injuries to key players like Lockie Ferguson and Williamson, they bounced back to secure the 4th spot by defeating Sri Lanka. New Zealand knows they have the firepower to beat anyone on their day, especially recalling their triumphant 2019 victory against India.
Siraj's exceptional form, coupled with the favorable conditions at Wankhede, is expected to trouble the left-handers in the New Zealand squad.
The betting tip is...
M Siraj to take 1.5+ wickets
76 %
24 %
IndiaNew ZealandThe entire Indian squad is in fantastic form, putting to rest any worries about player performances. The match being in Mumbai, with its smaller ground, is likely to be a high-scoring affair. Moreover, under the evening lights, the ball tends to swing well at this venue. The deadly trio of Siraj, Shami, and Bumrah must be eager for this setting.
Rohit and Shubman have consistently provided great starts, setting a solid foundation. In the middle order, Shreyas, Virat, and KL have been delivering stellar performances. The team is in top-notch shape, and everything seems to be clicking perfectly.
We don't expect any changes in the playing XI of team India.
Predicted Lineup: Rohit Sharma (c), Shubhman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wk),Ravindra Jadeja,S. Yadav, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Shami, and Mohammad Siraj
The New Zealand team has dealt with a string of injuries to key players during this campaign. Despite the setbacks, new faces keep emerging, stepping up to the plate, and taking on responsibilities. Rachin Ravindra has been a standout performer with the bat, amassing an impressive 565 runs in the league stage at an average of 70. Another notable name is Daryl Mitchell, showcasing explosive batting skills.
On the bowling front, Trent Boult and Mitchell Santner have been wreaking havoc, causing quite a stir with their performances.
Rachin Ravindra will be the man to watch out for in team New Zealand.
Predicted Lineup: Devon Conway, Rachin Ravindra, Kane Williamson (c), Daryl Mitchell, Mark Chapman, Glenn Phillips, Tom Latham (wk), Mitchell Santner, Tim Southee, Lockie Ferguson, Trent Boult
India's dominant performance in the league stage, backed by the roaring home crowd, sets the stage for an electrifying match. The team is in stellar form, and the home support is a significant boost.
However, the memory of New Zealand defeating India in the previous semi-final will be lingering, and the Indian squad won't underestimate the Islanders. There's a sense of caution in the air.
New Zealand, aware of the challenge, must bring their A+ game to conquer India on their home turf, especially at the ground where India lifted the 2011 World Cup.
The Kiwis have a knack for winning knockouts and causing upsets. Anticipate a nail-biting contest where both teams will aim to set a high total and then defend it. While it's expected to be a close match, India's supreme form gives them the edge, making them the favorites to come out on top.
