New Zealand will head into a World Cup semifinal and play against India after snapping a four-match losing streak against Sri Lanka in their last round-robin clash. New Zealand has reached the final of the last two World Cups and beat India to reach the title decider in 2019.
After losing to Pakistan on the Duckworth-Lewis method despite scoring more than 400 runs in their previous match, New Zealand really hit their straps in the bowling department to restrict Sri Lanka to 171.
India lost to New Zealand in the 2019 semi-final but beat them earlier in this edition in Dharamsala. New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson admitted that it would be "challenging" for his side to play hosts India.
Asked whether the Kiwis were looking forward to a last-four clash with India, Williamson said, "Playing semis is special but playing the home team will be challenging. Looking forward to it if we are fortunate enough to have it."
Pacer Trent Boult, who won the 'Player of the Match' award for his 3/37, said it felt nice to contribute in a must-win game. "Nice to get a bit of success at the top. A must-win game, the pleasure is about getting the result. It is a challenging part of the world opening the bowling. Nice to get a decent outing," Boult said.
"Always the biggest challenge of coming here is different conditions. Conditions have changed throughout." On facing India, the pacer said, "Everyone wants to have a piece of the strong home nation. Looking forward to it." Batter Rachin Ravindra credited his success to Williamson's cool head.
The Indian-origin cricketer, who is leading the run charts said, "I have idolised a lot like Virat Kohli, Steven Smith, Joe Root. But Kane his leadership, on and off the field, just keeps it calm. When you are young, you take the game on, lucky to have come off."
India will face New Zealand at the Wankhede stadium on 15th November.
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