Virat Kohli etched his name in cricket history by securing his 50th one-day international (ODI) hundred, a record-breaking feat, as India triumphed over New Zealand by 70 runs to secure a coveted spot in the Cricket World Cup final.
Kohli’s sublime innings of 117 not only propelled him beyond the ODI century record shared with cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar but also played a pivotal role in India’s imposing total of 397-4. Shreyas Iyer contributed significantly with a blistering knock of 105.
Despite a valiant effort by Daryl Mitchell, who scored an impressive 134, New Zealand fell short and were dismissed for 327. The Indian pace sensation, Mohammed Shami, delivered a stellar performance, claiming a sensational career-best 7-57.
A glimmer of hope for New Zealand emerged during a formidable third-wicket partnership of 181 runs between captain Kane Williamson and Mitchell at the illustrious Wankhede Stadium. Shami, however, emerged as the hero, disrupting the Kiwi chase with two crucial wickets in the 33rd over.
Star batsman Williamson succumbed to Shami’s delivery after a resilient 69, caught by Suryakumar Yadav at deep square leg. Tom Latham followed suit, departing for a duck, leaving New Zealand at 220-4.
Shami’s brilliance extended beyond expectation as he went on to surpass his previous ODI best, securing the wickets of Mitchell, Southee, and Lockie Ferguson.
India, with this commanding victory, now advances to the final, awaiting the winner between Australia and South Africa, who clash in the semi-final on Thursday.
