Shami’s Magnificent 7 Propel India to the Cricket World Cup Final
In a breathtaking showdown at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, India secured a spot in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 final, overcoming New Zealand in a high-scoring clash. The trio of Virat Kohli, Mohammed Shami, and Shreyas Iyer emerged as the stars of the day, contributing significantly to India’s victory.
The indomitable Mohammed Shami spearheaded India’s bowling attack, thwarting New Zealand’s valiant efforts led by Daryl Mitchell’s impressive 134 – his second century against India in the tournament. Shami’s phenomenal performance yielded outstanding figures of 7/57, making him the tournament’s highest wicket-taker with a staggering 24 wickets from six games at an average of 9.13.
Earlier in the match, Virat Kohli’s masterful century, supported by a scintillating start from the Indian openers, laid the foundation for a formidable total. Kohli’s departure after a splendid 117 did not deter India, with Shreyas Iyer’s breathtaking hundred helping them set the highest-ever total in a Men’s Cricket World Cup semi-final, reaching his century off just 67 balls.
Mitchell Santner’s 1/51 stood out as the best bowling figures for the Kiwis, while Tim Southee claimed three wickets but conceded 100 runs. Shubman Gill’s unbeaten 80* and contributions from Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul propelled India to an imposing total.
Chasing 398, New Zealand displayed resilience in the powerplay, with Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra launching a spirited attack. However, Mohammed Shami, brought in as the first change, made crucial breakthroughs by dismissing Conway and Ravindra, both departing for 13 runs.
Kane Williamson and Daryl Mitchell initiated a formidable partnership, crossing the 100-run mark with eight wickets in hand. Mitchell’s half-century and Williamson’s composed 69 kept the Black Caps in contention. Despite a scare when Williamson feared a run-out, he reached his half-century, and the duo’s partnership reached 181 before Shami claimed Williamson’s wicket.
Shami continued his stellar performance, securing his fourth wicket by removing Tom Latham for a two-ball duck. With the departure of the captain, New Zealand faced an uphill task, needing an extraordinary display from Mitchell and Glenn Phillips to deny India a spot in the final.
However, Ravindra Jadeja’s exceptional fielding, including three crucial catches, brought India closer to victory. Jadeja caught Phillips off Jasprit Bumrah and Mark Chapman off Kuldeep Yadav, leaving New Zealand in a precarious position. The hopes of a miraculous comeback dwindled when Jadeja completed a hat-trick of catches, ending Mitchell’s remarkable innings at 134, with Shami taking the final wicket.
Returning for one last spell, Shami secured two more wickets, solidifying his status as the tournament’s leading wicket-taker. India’s ruthless performance wrapped up the win, propelling them into the Cricket World Cup final.
Reflecting on India’s performance, Kane Williamson acknowledged their excellence, stating, “They’re the best team in the world, and they’re all playing their best cricket.” He praised India’s remarkable consistency throughout the tournament, expressing confidence in their approach as they head into the final.
In a thrilling encounter, India’s triumph showcased their dominance and set the stage for an eagerly anticipated Cricket World Cup final.
