India’s campaign in the recent ICC tournament was nothing short of spectacular, marked by exceptional performances and thrilling victories. The team showcased resilience, skill, and teamwork, securing a place in the finals after conquering formidable opponents. Let’s delve into each match, witnessing India’s triumphant journey through the league stage and the semi-final.
India’s journey to the 2023 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup final was nothing short of remarkable. They won all nine of their matches in the group stage, before defeating New Zealand in the semi-final to reach the final.
India’s Road to the Final of ICC World Cup 2023
Match 1, v Australia in Chennai:
India kicked off the tournament in style, leveraging a helpful surface in Chennai. Spinners led the charge as they restricted Australia to a sub-par total of 199. Despite early setbacks at 2/3, a solid partnership between Kohli and KL Rahul steered India to victory, underscoring their ability to navigate challenging situations.
Match 2, v Afghanistan in Delhi:
Facing Afghanistan in Delhi, India encountered a resilient opponent. Jasprit Bumrah’s late strikes curtailed Afghanistan’s charge towards 300. Rohit Sharma’s attacking century in the chase exemplified India’s batting prowess, securing victory in just 35 overs.
Match 3, v Pakistan in Ahmedabad:
Bumrah’s brilliance with the ball continued against Pakistan in Ahmedabad, leading to a collapse from 155/2 to 191 all out. India’s top order set the tone for another convincing win, highlighting their dominance in the tournament.
Match 4, v Bangladesh in Pune:
Virat Kohli’s exceptional century against Bangladesh showcased India’s batting depth. Despite the clinical performance with the ball, the loss of Hardik Pandya due to injury was a setback, but India chased down the target with ease.
Match 5, v New Zealand in Dharamsala:
Facing their first non-Asian opponent, New Zealand posed a significant challenge. Daryl Mitchell and Rachin Ravindra tested India’s spin attack, but Mohammed Shami’s scintillating five-for turned the game. India chased down 273 led by Kohli, displaying resilience against a tough competitor.
Match 6, v England in Lucknow:
Batting first for the first time in the tournament, India stumbled on a tough wicket. Rohit Sharma’s excellence propelled them to 229/9, and the formidable bowling duo of Bumrah and Shami dismantled England for 129 under lights.
Match 7, v Sri Lanka in Mumbai:
Despite an early setback with India’s skipper, Sri Lanka couldn’t capitalize. India’s top and middle order dominated, posting 357/8. Mohammed Siraj and Shami dismantled Sri Lanka for a record margin win of 302 runs.
Match 8, v South Africa in Kolkata:
Virat Kohli’s 49th ODI hundred in Kolkata propelled India to 326. The spinners, along with Shami, cleaned up South Africa for 83, showcasing India’s all-round dominance.
Match 9, v Netherlands in Bengaluru:
India continued their winning streak against Netherlands, posting a massive total of 410/4. Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul’s attacking centuries overwhelmed the Dutch side, securing India’s ninth consecutive win in the league stage.
Semi-final 1, v New Zealand, in Mumbai:
Breaking the Kiwi hoodoo in ICC tournament knockouts, India secured a place in the finals. Kohli’s record-breaking 50th ODI ton, coupled with Iyer’s century, guided India to a score close to 400, emphasizing their determination and class.