India vs New Zealand: ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 semifinal – as it happened

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India vs New Zealand: ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 semifinal – as it happened. India storm into World Cup final after sensational Shami seven-forMohammed Shami produced a career-best bowling performance to spearhead India to a comprehensive 70-run victory over New Zealand in the first semi-final of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Wednesday.

Shami's sensational haul of 7-57 was the best by an Indian bowler in a World Cup match, eclipsing Kapil Dev's 5-27 against Australia in 1999. The right-arm pacer ripped through New Zealand's middle and lower order, dismissing Mitchell Santner (21), Kane Williamson (1), Daryl Mitchell (57), Glenn Phillips (54), James Neesham (8), Michael Bracewell (14) and Adam Milne (1) to skittle out the Kiwis for 327 in 48.5 overs.

Earlier, India had posted a massive 397-4 on the back of centuries from Virat Kohli (117) and Shreyas Iyer (103). Kohli's unbeaten knock was his 50th in ODI cricket, surpassing Sachin Tendulkar's record of 49. Shubman Gill (79) and Rishabh Pant (45) also made significant contributions to India's imposing total.

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New Zealand's chase got off to a promising start with Devon Conway (13) and Rachin Ravindra (13) adding a quickfire 25 for the opening wicket. However, Shami struck twice in quick succession to remove both openers and put the brakes on New Zealand's chase.

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Kane Williamson and Daryl Mitchell steadied the innings with a 72-run stand for the third wicket, but the Black Caps were unable to sustain the momentum. Shami's late spell of destruction saw New Zealand crumble from 181-3 to 327 all out.

India's victory was a dominant display of batting and bowling, with Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer laying the foundation with their centuries, and Mohammed Shami putting the finishing touches with his seven-wicket haul. India will now face the winner of the second semi-final between England and Australia in the final on Sunday.

Match Summary

Toss: New Zealand won the toss and elected to bowl first.

India: 397-4 (50 overs)

Virat Kohli 117 (120 balls), Shreyas Iyer 103 (111 balls), Shubman Gill 79 (94 balls), Rishabh Pant 45 (41 balls)

New Zealand: 327 (48.5 overs)

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Here are five things to watch when the Bengals and Ravens clash on Thursday Night Football:

1. The Battle of the Quarterbacks

Joe Burrow and Lamar Jackson are two of the most dynamic young quarterbacks in the NFL. Burrow is a polished passer with a quick release and a knack for making big plays. Jackson is a dual-threat playmaker who can beat defenses with his arm and his legs. Both quarterbacks will be looking to make a statement in this primetime matchup.

2. The Ravens' Run Defense vs. the Bengals' Running Game

The Ravens' run defense has been one of the best in the NFL this season. They have allowed just 98.3 rushing yards per game, which is the third-fewest in the league. The Bengals, on the other hand, have relied heavily on their running game in recent weeks. Joe Mixon has averaged 103 rushing yards per game over his last three games. This will be a key matchup to watch in this game.

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3. The Bengals' Pass Defense vs. the Ravens' Passing Game

The Bengals' pass defense has been a major liability this season. They have allowed 284.6 passing yards per game, which is the second-most in the league. The Ravens' passing game has been inconsistent this season, but they have the potential to be very dangerous when they are on their game. Lamar Jackson is a threat to throw for over 300 yards and multiple touchdowns in any given game. This will be a test for the Bengals' young secondary.

4. The Special Teams Battle

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Special teams can often decide close games. The Ravens have one of the best special teams units in the NFL. They have a dangerous return man in Devin Duvernay and a reliable kicker in Justin Tucker. The Bengals' special teams have been average this season. They need to make sure they avoid any costly mistakes in this game.

5. The Home-Field Advantage

The Ravens have a significant home-field advantage at M&T Bank Stadium. They have won 21 of their last 23 home games. The Bengals will need to play a near-perfect game to overcome the Ravens' home-field advantage.

Prediction:

This game is a toss-up. Both teams are evenly matched, and it should come down to who makes the most plays in the fourth quarter. I think the Ravens will win a close game, 24-21.

Additional Notes:

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·         This will be the 44th meeting between the Bengals and Ravens. The Ravens lead the all-time series, 27-16.

·         The Bengals have won four of their last six games against the Ravens.

·         The Ravens have won their last eight home games against the Bengals.

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