Cricket Highlights, 16 Nov: ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 (Semi-Final 1) – India vs New Zealand: The host India confirmed the final as the first team of the World Cup to defeat the Kiwis.

November 16, 2023

India vs New Zealand (Semi-Final) – Highlights

On the way to the semi-finals, no team could challenge the host, India. Daryl Mitchell and Kane Williamson gave the Indian team a real scare yesterday. The Kiwis were hoping for victory with the bats of these two batsmen chasing a mountainous target. However, the New Zealand team had to leave the field getting defeated due to the bowling canon of Mohammed Shami.

India bested New Zealand by 70 runs in the first semi-final match of the World Cup 2023 on Wednesday (November 15). New Zealand was bowled out for 327 runs in 48.5 overs chasing the huge target of 398 runs set by India. With this victory, India reached the World Cup final remaining undefeated. After 9 wins in the group stage, they blew away the Kiwis in the semi-finals as well.

New Zealand did not get off to a good start chasing a big target. Two openers Devon Conway (13) and Rachin Ravindra (13) returned with wickets in two successive overs of Shami. The Kiwis were pretty much out of the match after losing two wickets for 39 runs. But they were brought back into the fight by Williamson and Mitchell.

For the third wicket, these two top-order batsmen put on a partnership of 181 runs. But after Williamson’s return with 69 runs, New Zealand lost their way again. After the dismissal of the captain, Tom Latham got back on the same over. The Kiwis made a pair of 75 runs for the fifth wicket. Glenn Phillips scored 41 runs off 33 balls. However, after his departure, Kiwis could not resist the defeat.

Mitchell batted keeping one end safe, but no one could give him worthy company at the other end. Mitchell scored 134 runs off 119 balls with 9 fours and 7 sixes. Shami single-handedly destroyed the Kiwis’ batting line-up. He scalped 7 wickets with 57 runs and was also selected as the player of the match.

Earlier, Rohit Sharma won the toss and went down to bat at the beginning. He added 70 runs to the scoreboard of the team in 8 overs with Shubman Gill. But as luck did not help him, he had to leave the field 3 runs away from fifty. Rohit hit 4 sixes and 4 fours and scored 47 runs off 29 balls.

Gill stood on the other side solid and picked up the fifty. With 7 fours and 1 six, he scored a 41-ball fifty on his way to a century. He got on top of the Kiwi bowlers by forming a partnership with Virat Kohli. But in the 23rd over, Gill pulled his leg muscle while tackling Mitchell Santner’s ball.

In the end, Gill had to leave the field. He scored 79 runs off 65 balls with 8 fours and 3 sixes before going to the dugout. When Gill left the crease, the Indian’s score was 164 in 22.4 overs.

After that, Kohli got out in the 44th over of the innings with a partnership of 163 runs with Shreyas Iyer. He set three records before that. He surpassed Sachin Tendulkar and Shakib Al Hasan scoring the eighth fifty in the current season. Sachin in the 2003 World Cup and Shakib in the 2019 World Cup played 7 fifty-plus innings.

The 35-year-old batsman set the record for the highest runs in a single event, surpassing Sachin’s score of 80 runs. Sachin kept the record for two decades by scoring 673 runs. And by scoring a century, he became the owner of the highest 50th century in the history of ODI cricket. Earlier, he was jointly on the list of highest centuries with cricket god Sachin by scoring 49 centuries. Which he now single-handedly owns.

In the end, Kohli was caught by Conway after scoring 117 runs off 113 balls with 9 fours and 2 sixes. On the other side, Shreyas scored 8 sixes and 3 fours in 67 balls. He finally scored 105 runs off 70 balls and was bowled in the 49th over.

Suryakumar Yadav was the only failure on this day. He was the victim of Southee by scoring 1 run in 2 balls. In the end, Gill came back to the crease and scored 1 run off 1 ball. He remained unbeaten on 80 runs off 66 balls with 8 fours and 3 sixes. At the other end, KL Rahul left the field with 5 fours and 2 sixes, slashing 39 runs from 20 balls.

India vs New Zealand Scoreboard

India – 397/4 (50.0)

New Zealand – 327/10 (48.5)

Result – India won by 70 runs

Player of the match – Mohammed Shami

Virat Kohli

India vs New Zealand Playing XIs

India

Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul (wk), Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Ravindra Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Kuldeep Yadav.

New Zealand

Kane Williamson (c), Tom Latham (wk), Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Devon Conway, Mark Chapman, Tim Southee, Lockie Ferguson, Mitchell Santner, and Trent Boult.

Kohli and Rohit’s World Cup Semi-final Record-Shattering Performances

November 16, 2023

In a riveting World Cup semi-final clash against New Zealand, India witnessed not just a victory, but an unprecedented display of cricketing prowess. The heroics of Mohammed Shami with the ball and the batting brilliance of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Shreyas Iyer left an indelible mark on the cricketing record books.

Mohammed Shami’s bowling figures of 7 for 57 against New Zealand not only secured India’s path to the final but etched his name in history. Shami became the first Indian bowler to claim a seven-wicket haul in ODIs, surpassing Stuart Binny’s 6 for 4 against Bangladesh in 2014. What’s more, Shami’s feat in this knockout game makes him the sole bowler alongside Aaqib Javed to achieve a seven-for in a men’s ODI knockout match.

Virat Kohli, the modern-day maestro, showcased his sublime form in the semi-final, reaching a milestone that puts him ahead of the legendary Sachin Tendulkar. Kohli’s 711 runs in this World Cup not only guided India but also set a new record for the most runs by any batter in a single edition of the men’s ODI World Cup, surpassing Tendulkar’s 673 runs in 2003.

With eight 50-plus scores in the tournament, Kohli also established a new record for the most such scores by any batter in a single edition of the ODI World Cup. His consistency and ability to convert starts into substantial scores played a pivotal role in India’s campaign.

Rohit Sharma, known for his ability to clear the boundaries effortlessly, set a new record for the most sixes in ODI World Cups. His 51 sixes surpassed Chris Gayle’s previous record of 49. In the semi-final alone, Rohit unleashed 28 sixes, a feat unmatched in a single edition of the ODI World Cup, breaking Gayle’s record of 26 in 2015.

Furthermore, Rohit’s prolific partnership with Shubman Gill reached new heights. With 14 fifty-plus stands in 21 ODI innings in 2023, the duo set a record for the most 50-plus partnerships in a calendar year in men’s ODIs.

Shreyas Iyer’s breathtaking century in just 67 balls became the fastest in an ODI World Cup knockout game, breaking the previous record held by Adam Gilchrist. His innings played a pivotal role in India amassing a colossal total of 397 for 4, the highest by any team in an ODI World Cup knockout game. This record-breaking total surpassed New Zealand’s previous record of 393 for 6 against West Indies in the 2015 World Cup quarter-final.

In addition to the batting exploits, India’s aggressive intent was evident as they hit 19 sixes, equalling their own record set against Australia in 2013 and New Zealand earlier in the year.

The semi-final clash between India and New Zealand was not just a game; it was a spectacle of record-breaking performances. From Shami’s historic bowling figures to Kohli and Rohit’s batting milestones, each player contributed to a cricketing extravaganza that will be etched in the annals of the sport’s history.

The 1999 World Cup Semi-final – Australia vs South Africa’s 5 Everlasting Moments

November 16, 2023

In the vast expanse of cricket history, some matches are heartbreaking for a team, and that very same match is heart-warming for another team. The 1999 World Cup Semifinal between Australia and South Africa was a match like that. In that match, some moments are unforgettable among those five of the most jaw-dropping moments described in this article.

No. 1 Most Dramatic Run-out in Cricket’s History

Dramatic Run-out (Photo Source: Getty Images )

With one run needed off three balls, the climax unfolded in unparalleled fashion. Klusener’s unconvincing shot, a mix-up with Donald, and a fateful run-out completed a tragicomic tableau. Donald dropped his bat, confusion ensued, and in a moment of panic, Australia capitalized. Damien Fleming’s accurate throw to Adam Gilchrist sealed South Africa’s fate in a manner that remains unparalleled in cricketing history.

No. 2 The Missed Run-out Chance

Missed Run-out Chance (Photo Source: Getty Images )

In the penultimate over, with 9 runs needed, Klusener unleashed consecutive boundaries, leveling the scores with only one run required from four balls. However, a missed run-out chance added a layer of drama. Darren Lehmann’s underarm throw to the stumps seemed wide, and Allan Donald survived by a hair’s breadth. The tension escalated, setting the stage for the most dramatic sequence in cricketing history.

No. 3 Klusener’s Flamboyant Cameo

Lance Klusener (Photo Source: Getty Images )

With the match hanging in the balance, Lance Klusener’s flamboyant cameo injected intensity into the contest. Negating the threat posed by the Australian bowlers, Klusener’s aggressive batting style brought South Africa to the brink of history. Scoring 38 runs off 30 balls, he played the role of a finisher, setting the stage for a nail-biting finish at Edgbaston.

No. 4 Shane Warne’s Heroics with the Ball

Shane Warne (Photo Source: Getty Images )

Chasing 214, South Africa got off to a solid start, reaching 43 runs in the first 10 overs. Enter Shane Warne, whose magical spell of 4 for 29, including the prized wickets of Gibbs, Kirsten, and Cronje, showcased one of the greatest displays of spin bowling in World Cup history. Warne’s ability to turn the tide and dismantle the Proteas’ top order added a thrilling dimension to the match, cementing his status as a champion bowler.

No. 5 Michael Bevan’s Gritty Knock

Michael Bevan (Photo Source: Getty Images )

Australia found themselves in dire straits at 68/4, facing the formidable duo of Allan Donald and Shaun Pollock. Enter Michael Bevan, who weathered the storm, laboring through the middle overs to rotate the strike and build partnerships. His resilient innings of 65 off 101 balls brought calmness to the Australian innings, crucially guiding them past the 200-run mark. Bevan’s ability to adapt to the situation and conditions earned him widespread praise, solidifying his place in the lore of this historic match.

In the end, what was supposed to be South Africa’s moment of glory turned into a heart-wrenching defeat. The images of Donald dropping his bat, Klusener running towards the pavilion, and the eruption of jubilance among Australian players are eternally etched in cricketing lore. The 1999 World Cup semi-final, with its five everlasting moments, stands as a testament to the unpredictable and captivating nature of the sport.

Shami’s Seven-For Spectacle: How India Secured the World Cup Final, Leaving New Zealand Short

November 16, 2023

In a high-stakes semi-final clash, India showcased their batting prowess and a lethal bowling display by Mohammed Shami to secure a resounding victory over New Zealand, advancing to the World Cup final with an imposing total of 397 for 4. The match was a testament to India’s cricketing prowess, blending seasoned performances with emerging talent.

India’s innings was marked by stellar centuries from Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer, complemented by a quick-fire start from the explosive Rohit Sharma. Kohli’s remarkable 117, his 50th ODI century, unfolded in front of his wife and surpassed the legendary Sachin Tendulkar’s milestone. Iyer, continuing his fine form, notched up a second consecutive century at a brisk 67-ball pace, the third-fastest by an Indian in this World Cup.

Rohit Sharma, with his aggressive intent, set the tone for India’s innings, providing the team with a head start on a pitch that promised more assistance to bowlers later in the day. Despite falling on 47, his early onslaught paved the way for subsequent batsmen to capitalize on the platform laid.

As the New Zealand innings unfolded, Mohammed Shami emerged as the hero with a sensational 7-wicket haul, dismantling the opposition with figures of 7-57. His mastery over the conditions and ability to exploit weaknesses in the New Zealand batting lineup showcased his effectiveness under pressure. Shami’s double strike, removing the crucial wickets of Kane Williamson and Tom Latham, played a pivotal role in tilting the match in India’s favor.

Jasprit Bumrah, despite a shaky start, found his rhythm, while spinners Ravindra Jadeja and Mitchell Santner provided crucial support. Shami’s stellar performance made him the fastest to reach 50 wickets in World Cups and secured India’s best bowling figures in the tournament.

India’s dominance was not just confined to individual performances but reflected in the team’s strategic approach. The top five batsmen, averaging more than any other side in a single World Cup, adhered to their roles diligently. Rohit Sharma’s aggressive starts, Iyer and Kohli’s accumulation, and the finishing touches provided by KL Rahul showcased a well-coordinated batting unit.

The strategic decision to opt for the retirement-hurt status for Shubman Gill, who effectively assumed the role of the aggressor in the game, served as a clear manifestation of India’s sagacity and unwavering focus on ensuring a secure berth in the final without subjecting key players to unnecessary risks. This judicious move not only underscored the team’s commitment to strategic gameplay but also underscored their dedication to achieving long-term goals, demonstrating a prudent approach to player management and overall team strategy.

India’s journey to the World Cup final has been marked by commanding victories and a display of cricketing prowess. The team’s ability to adapt to changing conditions, coupled with individual brilliance, makes them formidable contenders for the coveted title. With Shami’s heroics, Kohli’s leadership, and the collective strength of the team, India stands on the brink of a potentially historic World Cup triumph. As they prepare for the final, the cricketing world awaits to witness if India can cap off their dominant campaign with the ultimate glory.

Analyzing South African Bowlers’ Performance in ODI World Cup 2023 Group Stage

November 16, 2023

South Africa is going to face Australia in the semifinal and they will seek their revenge. Both of the team has a long history of knockout-stage rivalry. This time who is going to overpower that we don’t know but we can go through the stats of South African Bowlers attack to their contribution so far.

1. Gerald Coetzee

Gerald Coetzee (Photo Source: Twitter )

Gerald Coetzee has been a standout performer, leading the wicket-takers chart with 18 wickets in just seven matches. His ability to strike consistently, evident in his best figures of 4/44, has been crucial for the team. Coetzee’s average of 19.38 and an impressive economy rate of 6.40 demonstrate his impact in controlling the game while picking up crucial wickets.

2. Marco Jansen

Marco Jansen (Photo Source: Twitter )

Marco Jansen has been a picture of consistency, claiming 17 wickets in eight matches. His best figures of 3/31 showcase his ability to break partnerships. With an average of 24.41 and an economy rate of 6.41, Jansen has played a vital role in maintaining the pressure on the opposition throughout the group stage.

3. Keshav Maharaj

Keshav Maharaj (Photo Source: Twitter )

Keshav Maharaj, known for his all-round abilities, has contributed both with the bat and the ball. In the bowling department, he has picked up 14 wickets in nine matches, with a best of 4/46. Maharaj’s economy rate of 4.37 indicates his knack for containing runs, providing crucial breakthroughs for his team.

4. Kagiso Rabada

Kagiso Rabada (Photo Source: Twitter )

Kagiso Rabada, the pace spearhead, might have fewer wickets compared to his counterparts, but his impact cannot be overlooked. With 12 wickets in eight matches, Rabada has been effective in crucial moments. His economy rate of 4.83 and an average of 26.91 reflect his ability to maintain pressure on the opposition batting lineup.

5. Lungi Ngidi

Lungi Ngidi (Photo Source: Twitter )

Lungi Ngidi, with 10 wickets in eight matches, has been a key component of the South African bowling arsenal. Despite not having a five-wicket haul, Ngidi’s ability to strike at crucial junctures has been commendable. His economy rate of 5.86 suggests that he has managed to keep the runs in check while picking up valuable wickets.

6. Tabraiz Shamsi

Tabraiz Shamsi (Photo Source: Twitter )

Tabraiz Shamsi, the leg-spin maestro, has made a mark with seven wickets in just three matches. His best figures of 4/60 showcase his ability to bamboozle the opposition with spin. Shamsi’s economy rate of 6.10 and an average of 24.28 indicate his impact in providing crucial breakthroughs in the middle overs.

7. Lizaad Williams and Andile Phehlukwayo

Andile Phehlukwayo (Photo Source: Twitter )

Though having played fewer matches, both LB Williams and AL Phehlukwayo have shown their capabilities. Williams, with 2 wickets in one match, and Phehlukwayo, with 1 wicket in one match, have contributed when given the opportunity. Their economy rates of 6.46 and 5.14, respectively, highlight their ability to keep the opposition under control.

South Africa’s bowling unit has showcased remarkable performances in the ODI World Cup 2023 group stage. The diversity in the bowling attack, combining pace and spin, has been a crucial factor in their success. As they progress to the knockout stages, the opposition teams will undoubtedly have their task cut out against this formidable bowling lineup.

Unveiling the Strength of Australian Bowlers in the ODI World Cup 2023 Group Stage

November 16, 2023

Australian Bowlers are not performing up to par except for the specialist leg spinner Adam Zampa. The seamers are not doing as much impact as they were supposed to do. But they are not failing at all, everyone is contributing to the team and we are going through their performances in this tournament’s group stage.

1. Adam Zampa

Adam Zampa (Photo Source: Twitter )

Leading the pack with an impressive tally of 22 wickets in just nine matches, Adam Zampa has been a revelation for Australia. His ability to turn the ball both ways and deceive batsmen with his variations has made him a formidable force. Zampa’s best figures of 4/8, coupled with an average of 18.90 and an economy rate of 5.26, underscore his effectiveness as a wicket-taking option in the middle overs. With a strike rate of 21.54, Zampa has consistently provided crucial breakthroughs, making him the linchpin of the Australian bowling attack.

2. Josh Hazlewood

Josh Hazlewood (Photo Source: Twitter )

Josh Hazlewood has been the epitome of consistency in the ODI World Cup 2023. With 12 wickets in nine matches, Hazlewood’s ability to maintain a tight line and length has troubled batsmen throughout the tournament. His best figures of 3/38 showcase his knack for breaking partnerships. While his average of 31.41 may suggest a few runs conceded, his economy rate of 5.01 and a strike rate of 37.58 highlight his importance in building pressure on the opposition.

3. Pat Cummins

Pat Cummins (Photo Source: Twitter )

As the captain of the Australian side, Pat Cummins has not only shouldered the responsibilities with the bat but has also been a valuable asset with the ball. Despite taking 10 wickets in the tournament, Cummins has been economical, conceding runs at an average of 43.00 with an economy rate of 6.15.

4. Mitchell Starc

Mitchell Starc (Photo Source: Twitter )

Known for his express pace, Mitchell Starc has contributed significantly to Australia’s bowling success in the group stage. Although he has taken 10 wickets, his economy rate of 6.55 may raise eyebrows, but Starc’s knack for striking at crucial junctures has been vital. His best figures of 2/43 and a strike rate of 40.20 underline his effectiveness in providing breakthroughs when needed the most.

5. Glenn Maxwell

Glenn Maxwell (Photo Source: Twitter )

Glenn Maxwell, primarily known for his explosive batting, has showcased his utility with the ball in hand. With five wickets in seven matches, Maxwell’s off-spin has added a dynamic dimension to the Australian bowling attack. An economy rate of 4.95 and a strike rate of 63.00 reflect his ability to break partnerships and control the flow of runs.

6. Other Contributors: Stoinis, Abbott, and Marsh

Marcus Stoinis (Photo Source: Twitter )

While Marcus Stoinis, Sean Abbott, and Mitchell Marsh may not have featured as prominently in the wicket-taking charts, their contributions have been vital in providing depth to the Australian bowling lineup. Stoinis’ economy rate of 7.52, Abbott’s strike rate of 30.00, and Marsh’s economy of 8.27 showcase the diversity and balance that the Australian bowling unit brings to the table.

ODI World Cup 2023: South Africa’s Unforgettable Records in the Group Stage

November 16, 2023

South Africa started the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 like an unbeatable force. They broke records after records in almost every match. Maybe they are the team who broke the most records in this tournament’s group stage. We must go through those records they broke in this tournament to focus on their ability which is the crucial factor for their opponents.

One of the most striking records that South Africa has claimed is the unprecedented number of sixes in a single World Cup edition. The Proteas have bludgeoned their way to 82 sixes in just seven matches, surpassing England’s previous record of 76 set in the 2019 World Cup. Led by the explosive batting duo of Quinton de Kock and a destructive middle-order, South Africa’s relentless six-hitting spree has set them apart as the team to beat.

Marco Jansen, the left-arm quick, has been a revelation for South Africa, not only with the bat but also with the ball. Claiming a staggering 12 wickets during the Powerplay, Jansen has played a pivotal role in dismantling opposition line-ups early in their innings. This dominance has given South Africa a crucial edge, ensuring their stronghold in the initial overs.

Quinton de Kock, the talismanic opener, has been in a league of his own, amassing four centuries in the tournament. His explosive starts have been the cornerstone of South Africa’s batting dominance. Moreover, with Rassie van der Dussen and others contributing, South Africa has equaled the record for the most individual centuries in a Cricket World Cup. Their formidable batting lineup is poised to claim this record outright in the upcoming matches.

The combination of de Kock and van der Dussen has been nothing short of spectacular, producing two double-century partnerships in the group stage. Their 200-run stands against Sri Lanka and New Zealand have etched their names in the record books, matching the feat achieved by Dilshan and Tharanga in 2011. This dynamic duo’s consistency has been a nightmare for opposition bowlers.

Quinton de Kock’s sensational form has propelled him to the top of the run-scoring charts in this World Cup. With a staggering 545 runs in just seven innings, he not only broke Jacques Kallis’s record for the most runs by a South African in a World Cup but also had his eyes set on Sachin Tendulkar’s record of 673 runs in 2003. De Kock’s sublime touch with the bat has been the linchpin of South Africa’s success.

South Africa’s batting juggernaut has achieved another milestone by becoming the first team to score four 350-plus totals in a single Cricket World Cup. Their dominating performances against Sri Lanka, England, Bangladesh, and New Zealand have solidified their reputation as a formidable force with the bat. This accomplishment, equaled only by Australia in the tournament’s history, cemented South Africa’s legacy as a powerhouse in ODIs.

South Africa’s campaign in the ODI World Cup 2023 has been nothing short of spectacular. Their big-hitting, dominant bowling and record-breaking performances have set them apart as serious contenders for the ultimate prize.

Cricket Highlights, 16 Nov: ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 (Semi-Final 1) – India vs New Zealand: The host India confirmed the final as the first team of the World Cup to defeat the Kiwis.

India vs New Zealand (Semi-Final) – Highlights

India vs New Zealand Scoreboard

India vs New Zealand Playing XIs

More Cricket Article

Kohli and Rohit’s World Cup Semi-final Record-Shattering Performances

More Cricket Article

The 1999 World Cup Semi-final – Australia vs South Africa’s 5 Everlasting Moments

No. 1 Most Dramatic Run-out in Cricket’s History

No. 2 The Missed Run-out Chance

No. 3 Klusener’s Flamboyant Cameo

No. 4 Shane Warne’s Heroics with the Ball

No. 5 Michael Bevan’s Gritty Knock

More Cricket Article

Shami’s Seven-For Spectacle: How India Secured the World Cup Final, Leaving New Zealand Short

More Cricket Article

Analyzing South African Bowlers’ Performance in ODI World Cup 2023 Group Stage

1. Gerald Coetzee

2. Marco Jansen

3. Keshav Maharaj

4. Kagiso Rabada

5. Lungi Ngidi

6. Tabraiz Shamsi

7. Lizaad Williams and Andile Phehlukwayo

More Cricket Article

Unveiling the Strength of Australian Bowlers in the ODI World Cup 2023 Group Stage

1. Adam Zampa

2. Josh Hazlewood

3. Pat Cummins

4. Mitchell Starc

5. Glenn Maxwell

6. Other Contributors: Stoinis, Abbott, and Marsh

More Cricket Article

ODI World Cup 2023: South Africa’s Unforgettable Records in the Group Stage

More Cricket Article