Virat Kohli’s record 50th century helped India defeat New Zealand in a gripping semifinal match at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium, guaranteeing their place in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 final on home soil. India set a difficult goal of 398 and won by 70 runs.
The match saw a valiant fightback from New Zealand, with Daryl Mitchell’s blistering century and Kane Williamson’s solid partnership staging a resurgence. However, inspired by Kohli’s milestone innings and backed by a partisan crowd, India defended their total successfully.
Pace bowler Mohammed Shami played a pivotal role, claiming seven wickets, including the crucial dismissal of Mitchell, while Kohli’s record-breaking century surpassed Sachin Tendulkar’s ODI hundred record.
Captain Rohit Sharma and opener Shubman Gill set the tone for India’s innings, with Gill contributing significantly despite battling cramps. Another standout performance came from Shreyas Iyer, who demolished Kiwi dreams with eight sixes in a 70-ball innings.
Tim Southee, who claimed three wickets but conceded 100 runs, couldn’t halt India’s dominance. The New Zealand reply struggled, mirroring the challenging World Cup journey of opener Devon Conway.
As India now eyes the final in Ahmedabad on Sunday, the match showcased their dominance and determination, with Kohli’s century and Shami’s impactful bowling leading the charge.