In a cricket spectacle at Wankhede Stadium, Virat Kohli’s sensational century propels India to an astounding 70-run triumph over New Zealand, securing their place in the World Cup Semi-Final Clash. Kohli’s remarkable 117-run innings, surpassing Sachin Tendulkar’s ODI hundred record, proved pivotal in India’s massive total of 4-397.
The Indian skipper, achieving his 50th ODI century, formed a devastating 163-run partnership with Shreyas Iyer, who contributed a scintillating 105. The Kiwi bowlers struggled to contain the onslaught, with Iyer hammering the ball over the boundary nine times during his aggressive knock.
New Zealand’s Daryl Mitchell displayed resilience with a brilliant 134, the highest score in World Cup semi-finals, but Mohammed Shami’s exceptional seven-wicket haul and Kuldeep Yadav’s precise death bowling dismantled the Kiwi batting lineup. Mitchell’s valiant effort proved insufficient as India clinched their tenth consecutive victory in the tournament.
Rohit Sharma’s aggressive start set the tone for India, accumulating 58 runs in the opening six overs. Shubman Gill’s half-century and Kohli’s masterclass propelled India to their highest World Cup knockout total of 4-397. Despite a dropped chance by Glenn Phillips, Kohli’s departure after a spectacular 117-run innings didn’t hinder India’s momentum.
Chasing an imposing target of 398, New Zealand faced early setbacks as Shami’s lethal deliveries accounted for crucial wickets. Despite a resilient 181-run partnership between Kane Williamson and Daryl Mitchell, Shami’s brilliance with the ball and Ravindra Jadeja’s crucial contributions secured India’s victory.
The match witnessed tense moments, including Kohli’s on-field struggles with cramps and Mitchell’s impactful innings, making it a memorable semi-final clash. With this historic win, India now awaits the winner between Australia and South Africa in the World Cup final in Ahmedabad on Sunday.
The electrifying encounter left fans in awe as Virat Kohli’s iconic century and Shami’s record-breaking bowling performance etched a remarkable chapter in the history of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup.