.The ‘Men in Blue’ secured a 70-run win over New Zealand, marking a historic moment in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023. The stellar performances of Shami and Kohli were the standout features of the match, drawing praise from the highest echelons of the cricketing and political fraternity. India’s relentless pursuit of excellence has now propelled them into the final of the prestigious tournament, earning accolades from leaders and cricket enthusiasts alike.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his joy on X (formerly Twitter), calling the semifinal “even more special” due to stellar individual performances. He particularly lauded the exceptional bowling by Mohammed Shami throughout the World Cup, emphasising that Shami’s performance will be cherished for generations. PM Modi’s tweet can be viewed here.
Today’s Semi Final has been even more special thanks to stellar individual performances too.
The bowling by @MdShami11 in this game and also through the World Cup will be cherished by cricket lovers for generations to come.
Well played Shami!
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 15, 2023
Jay Shah, BCCI Secretary, took to X to applaud Team India for their stupendous performance, stating that the road to the finals has been nothing short of spectacular for the ‘Men in Blue.’ Shah praised key players, including Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill, Rohit Sharma, Shreyas Iyer, and Mohammed Shami, for their valuable contributions. His detailed post on X can be found here.
What a sensational performance by #TeamIndia in the #CWC2023! The road to the finals has been nothing short of spectacular, and our boys have truly shone on the grand stage. 💙
Captain @ImRo45 and @ShubmanGill set the perfect foundation, and the legendary @imVkohli notched up… pic.twitter.com/wWsFHaSilT
— Jay Shah (@JayShah) November 15, 2023
“It has been a tremendous run by the team, winning all the games with such authority. We have played really good cricket and are looking forward to the final now. We definitely have a good chance (to win the Finals),” Binny said after the match
India’s decision to bat first in the semifinal proved fruitful, as they posted a formidable total of 397/4 in 50 overs. Skipper Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill provided a strong start with a 71-run opening stand. Virat Kohli’s historic 50th ODI century and Shreyas Iyer’s explosive knock of 105 runs played pivotal roles in India’s commanding total.
In the chase of 398, New Zealand faced early setbacks but mounted a challenge with a remarkable 181-run partnership between Daryl Mitchell (134) and skipper Kane Williamson (69). However, Mohammed Shami’s crucial two-wicket over turned the tide in India’s favour, and the bowlers held their nerve in the death overs to restrict New Zealand to 327 in 48.5 overs.
Mohammed Shami, the star of the match, was awarded ‘Player of the Match’ for his exceptional spell. Shami’s seven-wicket haul played a pivotal role in India’s victory, and he also became the tournament’s leading wicket-taker.
With this commanding win, India is now one step away from glory, heading to the finals on November 19 at the Narendra Modi Stadium. The ‘Men in Blue’ have showcased stellar performances, igniting hopes of bringing the coveted trophy home. The nation is rallying behind the team, and the anticipation for the final clash is at an all-time high.
Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Roger Binny commended the Indian team for their authoritative display, winning all their matches with conviction. The victory, fueled by Mohammed Shami’s remarkable seven-wicket haul and Virat Kohli’s record 50th ODI century, showcased India’s dominance in the semifinal clash held at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium on Wednesday.
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