India Dominates New Zealand, Secures 70-Run Victory to Advance to ICC Men’s ODI World Cup Final
In a commanding performance, India triumphed over New Zealand by 70 runs, securing a place in the final of the ICC Men’s ODI World Cup. Opting to bat first, India posted a formidable 397/4 in 50 overs, and then restricted New Zealand to 327 in 48.5 overs.
Virat Kohli showcased sensational form, achieving his 50th ODI century and surpassing Sachin Tendulkar in the list of batters with the most ODI tons. Kohli’s remarkable innings was complemented by Shreyas Iyer’s explosive 105 off 70 balls. Opening duo Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill provided a strong start, adding 71 runs in 8.2 overs before Rohit departed for a brisk 47.
Despite Gill’s stylish play, he had to retire hurt at 79 due to cramps but returned in the final over to add one more run. Mohammed Shami displayed clinical bowling, taking seven wickets, including crucial breakthroughs in the early stages. Kane Williamson and Daryl Mitchell staged a 150-plus partnership for the third wicket, but Shami’s double blow, dismissing Williamson and trapping Latham, shifted the momentum.
Mitchell, with a century already, joined forces with Glenn Phillips, but Jasprit Bumrah and Kuldeep Yadav contributed to breaking key partnerships. Shami’s pivotal 134-run dismissal of Daryl Mitchell in the 46th over crushed New Zealand’s hopes, sealing India’s dominant victory.
