In a spellbinding showcase of swift bowling mastery, Mohammed Shami led India to triumph over New Zealand in the first semi-final of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 at Wankhede Stadium.
In a stunning turn of events in Mumbai, Mohammed Shami’s exceptional performance played a crucial role in India’s 70-run victory, catapulting them into the World Cup finals. Shami’s phenomenal spell, securing seven wickets for 57 runs, left New Zealand’s batting order in shambles and etched his name in the record books. The final showdown in Ahmedabad on November 16, 2023, awaits India, where they will lock horns with the victors of the South Africa vs Australia clash in Kolkata.
Shami’s stellar display not only earned him the well-deserved Player of the Match title but also underscored the pivotal role of fast bowling in the game. Setting new benchmarks, Shami achieved his best bowling figures in ODIs, making him the best-performing Indian bowler in the ODIs and the top wicket-taker in the World Cup. With a total of 23 wickets in six innings, including three fifers in this tournament and four overall, Shami’s impact resonates, especially considering he missed the first four games played by India.
Shami was the man of the hour as he dismantled key New Zealand batsmen, including stars like Devon Conway, Rachin Ravindra, Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, Tim Southee, and Lockie Ferguson. His sensational bowling display saw him claim 7 wickets for just 57 runs, leaving the Kiwis in disarray. The final blow came when New Zealand fell short at 327 in 48.5 overs.
Also Read: Fans React As India Thrashes New Zealand To Reach CWC 2023 Final
India, on the other hand, put up an impressive total of 397/4 in 50 overs, thanks to outstanding performances from Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, and Shreyas Iyer. Despite the team’s commanding batting display, the spotlight shifted dramatically to Mohammed Shami during New Zealand’s innings.
Here is how fans reacted to Mohammed Shami’s breathtaking spell:
