The four semi-finalists for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 have been confirmed, with India, New Zealand, South Africa, and Australia all progressing from the group stage. The knockout rounds promise intense battles as these top-tier teams vie for a spot in the final and the opportunity to claim cricket’s most prestigious trophy.
Semi-Finalists Confirmed For Knockout Stage
India finished top of the group with eight wins from nine matches, their only defeat coming against South Africa. The hosts have been in impressive form throughout the tournament, with their batting line-up led by Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, and their bowling attack spearheaded by Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami.
New Zealand finished second in the group with seven wins from nine matches. The defending champions have been solid in all areas of the game, with Kane Williamson leading from the front. They will be looking to repeat their heroics from 2019 and lift the trophy again.
South Africa finished third in the group with six wins from nine matches. The Proteas have been one of the most improved teams in the world in recent years, and they will be hoping to make it to their first World Cup final. They have a strong batting line-up led by Quinton de Kock and Aiden Markram, and a bowling attack that includes Kagiso Rabada and Anrich Nortje.
Australia finished fourth in the group with five wins from nine matches. The five-time world champions have not been at their best in this tournament, but they have still managed to qualify for the semi-finals. They will be hoping to turn things around in the knockout stages and lift the trophy for the first time since 2015. They have a star-studded line-up that includes David Warner, Steve Smith, and Pat Cummins.
Semi-final schedule
- Semi-final 1: India vs New Zealand, Wednesday, November 15, Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai
- Semi-final 2: South Africa vs Australia, Thursday, November 16, Eden Gardens, Kolkata
- Final: Sunday, November 19, Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad
All four semi-finalists are evenly matched, and it is sure to be a thrilling tournament finale.