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IND vs NZ Dream11 Prediction Fantasy Cricket Tips Possible XI Pitch Report – ODI World Cup 2023 Semi-Final 1

Charbel Coorey
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IND vs NZ Dream11 Prediction Fantasy Cricket Tips Possible XI Pitch Report – ODI World Cup 2023 Semi-Final 1

IND vs NZ Dream11 Prediction Fantasy Cricket Tips Possible XI Pitch Report – ODI World Cup 2023 Semi-Final 1 | IND vs NZ Dream11 Prediction Today | Mumbai Pitch Report

After 45 league matches, the business end of the 2023 World Cup is upon us. And it’s India and New Zealand that go head-to-head in yet another ICC knockout.

Rohit Sharma’s team were simply magnificent in the group stage, winning all nine matches in a show of dominance that reflected Australia of 2007. Now, the challenge for India will be to replicate their form with the ghosts of numerous defeats in knockout matches since Champions Trophy glory in 2013. However, given the way they’re playing, we can expect very little fear.

With KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer notching up superb tons in the match against the Netherlands, each of India’s top five have hit a century in this World Cup. A fearless and strong start is vital against the threat of Trent Boult and movement at the Wankhede, especially in twilight if they bat second. It promises to be a fascinating with so much on the line.

Four years ago, the Black Caps endured indescribable sporting heartbreak. They were pipped by the barest of margins in a classic against England, after breaking India’s hearts in the semi-final. The big question is whether they have the form and quality to knock India over again, this time against a firing Indian team with a huge home crowd behind them.

Indeed, so much rests on how New Zealand start with bat and ball. Rachin Ravindra, arguably the find of the tournament, along with Devon Conway, have the task of overcoming India’s truly spectacular powerplay bowling. If they can get Rohit and India thinking early, who knows what can come of it especially with no specialist sixth bowler available. Also, the Black Caps will look at the couple of occasions India lost early wickets – against Australia and England – and look to replicate something similar. It’s easier said than done, of course.

Match Details

  • ODI World Cup 2023 Semi-Final 1.
  • Date: Wednesday 15th November 2023.
  • Location: Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.
  • Time: 2:00pm (IST), 9:30 (NZT).

ODI World Cup 2023 Semi-Final 1 – IND vs NZ Possible Playing XIs

India have no reasons to change a winning combination. They are settled.

India: 1. Rohit Sharma (c), 2. Shubman Gill, 3. Virat Kohli, 4. Shreyas Iyer, 5. KL Rahul (wk), 6. Suryakumar Yadav, 7. Ravindra Jadeja, 8. Jasprit Bumrah, 9. Mohammed Shami, 10. Kuldeep Yadav, 11. Mohammad Siraj

New Zealand could stick with the same lineup. But, they may bring in James Neesham for Mark Chapman.

Also, Tim Southee is vital to NZ’s hopes. He has dismissed Rohit Sharma five times for 104 runs in ODIs at a batting strike rate of 69.8.

New Zealand: 1. Devon Conway, 2. Rachin Ravindra, 3. Kane Williamson (c), 4. Daryl Mitchell, 5. Tom Latham (wk), 6. Glenn Phillips, 7. Mark Chapman/James Neesham, 8. Mitchell Santner, 9. Lockie Ferguson, 10. Tim Southee, 11. Trent Boult

IND vs NZ Dream11 Prediction: Fantasy Cricket Tips

India:

  • Rohit Sharma became the first player in history to score 500+ runs in consecutive men’s World Cups. He is striking at a superb 121.49 in this World Cup, including 46 off 40 balls against New Zealand.
  • Shubman Gill has an impressive 18 50+ scores in 42 ODIs. Overall, he is averaging 60.75, including a score of 92 at Wankhede Stadium.
  • Gill has a strong record against Lockie Ferguson as he enjoys pace on the ball. He has scored 100 runs at an average of 50 and strike rate of 113.6 against him. Also, Gill has good numbers against Santner (81 balls, 95 runs, zero dismissals), so watch out if he gets through the powerplay.
  • Virat Kohli is also enjoying a fine tournament. He is the leading run-scorer with 594 at an average of 99.00, including 95 (102) against the Black Caps.
  • Kohli vs. Boult could be a fascinating battle. Virat has scored 145 runs against the left-armer at an average of 48.3 and strike rate of 105.8.
  • KL Rahul batting at number five in ODIs: 28 matches, 1,154 runs, avg. 54.95, SR 96.81.
  • Mohammed Shami has wonderful numbers against New Zealand (30 wickets, avg. 21.93) and at the Wankhede (eight wickets, avg. 11.62). Shami, who took 5/54 against NZ earlier in the tournament, has dismissed Kane Williamson twice in 91 balls in ODIs at an overall batting strike rate of 78.
  • The classy Jasprit Bumrah is India’s leading wicket-taker in this World Cup (17) at an incredible average of 15.64 and economy of 3.65. Between overs 1-10, Bumrah has picked up five wickets at an average of 22.4 and barely believable economy of 2.95. His battle against the NZ openers will be significant.

New Zealand:

  • Daryl Mitchell is key to New Zealand’s hopes. The right-hander struck a century against India earlier in the World Cup (130), with 63 coming against spin off 59 balls.
  • Rachin Ravindra has had a tournament to remember. His 565 runs come at a strike rate of 108.44 and includes an impressive 87-ball 75 against India during the group stage.
  • Can Devon Conway make an impact against India’s strong new-ball bowling? Conway was dismissed for a duck against India earlier in the tournament, but he does have 217 runs against the men in blue at an average of 43.40 and strike rate of 92.73.
  • Trent Boult is the danger man. He dismissed Kohli in the 2019 World Cup semi-final and has dismissed Rohit four times for 107 runs in ODIs at a batting strike rate of just 68.6.
  • Boult was having an under-par tournament until he fired when New Zealand really needed it against Sri Lanka. He finished with 3/37 and was awarded player of the match.
  • Expect Lockie Ferguson to target the in-form Shreyas Iyer with the short ball. Also, Ferguson will have memories of dismissing both Indian openers in their previous meeting. But, he averages 51.63 in 11 ODIs against India. Can he improve on this?

Other Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head in World Cups: Matches 9, India 4, New Zealand 5.
  • Virat Kohli’s career record against New Zealand: 30 inns, 1,548 runs, avg. 56.59, SR 95.14. This includes nine fifties and five hundreds.
  • Mitchell Santner can keep Kohli quiet. Virat strikes at just 68.9 in 238 balls in ODIs against the left-arm spinner (avg. 54.7).
  • Jasprit Bumrah has conceded just 39 off 83 against Kane Williamson in ODIs (one dismissal).
  • Tom Latham vs India in ODIs: 21 inns, 876 runs, avg. 51.52, SR 94.60.
  • Mohammed Siraj has dismissed Devon Conway twice in 21 balls in ODIs (11 runs).

Wankhede Stadium Mumbai Pitch Report and Weather

Bat first. Conditions have been most conducive for fast bowling in the period when the artificial lights begin to take over from natural light. It was the case when India dismantled the Sri Lankan lineup and Afghanistan reduced Australia to 94/7 before Glenn Maxwell magic.

A hot and mostly sunny day is forecast, with a top of 34 degrees. Recent air pollution in Mumbai may make conditions that extra challenging for the players.

IND vs NZ Dream11 Prediction: Captaincy, vice-captaincy, team combinations

Note: The below teams are not based on the final playing XIs. We may not be able to update these in time. Use the stats and commentary in this article, as well as your own instincts, to create your teams.

IND vs NZ Dream11 Prediction – Ideal Team Combination: 1-4-2-4

Option 1:

IND vs NZ Dream11 Prediction Fantasy Cricket Tips Possible XI Pitch Report - ODI World Cup 2023 Semi-Final 1 | IND vs NZ Dream11 Prediction Today | Mumbai Pitch Report | Best Dream11 prediction for IND vs NZ | Grand league prediction for IND vs NZ semi-final CWC 2023 match today | Small league prediction for Dream11 IND vs NZ
IND vs NZ Dream11 Prediction: 2023 ODI World Cup Semi-Final 1

Option 2:

IND vs NZ Dream11 Prediction Fantasy Cricket Tips Possible XI Pitch Report - ODI World Cup 2023 Semi-Final 1 | IND vs NZ Dream11 Prediction Today | Mumbai Pitch Report | Best Dream11 prediction for IND vs NZ | Grand league prediction for IND vs NZ semi-final CWC 2023 match today | Small league prediction for Dream11 IND vs NZ
IND vs NZ Dream11 Prediction: 2023 ODI World Cup Semi-Final 1

ODI World Cup 2023 Semi-Final 1 – Match Prediction: Who will win?

Anything is possible in a knockout game. New Zealand have caused India problems before, and can do so again. But, India are on a roll and look unstoppable. The Indians will go on and win this game.

Disclaimer: The fantasy cricket stats, tips and predictions provided on CricBlog are intended for informational purposes, with the stats and writer’s views in place to guide fans in creating their teams. While we strive to offer accurate and insightful advice, CricBlog does not guarantee success or winnings in any fantasy contests. Users are encouraged to make their own informed decisions and play responsibly.

Twitter reactions to India 410/4 vs Netherlands – KL Rahul & Shreyas Iyer smash centuries

Charbel Coorey
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Twitter reactions to India 410/4 vs Netherlands – KL Rahul & Shreyas Iyer smash centuries

Cricket News: Twitter reactions to India 410/4 vs Netherlands – KL Rahul & Shreyas Iyer smash centuries | Reactions to India’s 410/4 vs Netherlands at Bengaluru

On Diwali, it was KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer who lit up the M Chinnaswamy Stadium with wonderful ODI batting against the Netherlands. The pair combined for a mammoth 208-run stand in just 21.1 overs to take India to 410/4 in the quest for a ninth-straight victory in what has been a superb campaign for Rohit Sharma’s team.

Shreyas Iyer finished with 128 not out off 94 deliveries. His batting in the middle overs was impressive, keeping things ticking quickly after a superb start from openers Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill. Iyer’s most productive shot was the pull, hitting 42 runs in conjunction with runs all over the wicket. The fact he struck at 136.17 but had a control percentage of 95% is testament to his execution on the day, and this innings should serve as a nice confidence boost ahead of the semi-final.

Hometown boy KL Rahul also had a memorable outing. Not only has Rahul got India out of sticky situations in ODIs this year, but he is now the holder of the country’s fastest-ever hundred in ODI World Cups. The prolific number five never let the Dutch bowlers settle, striking 11 fours and four sixes en route to 102 off just 64 balls.

It was ominous from the outset for the Netherlands after Rohit Sharma won the toss and chose to bat in glorious batting conditions. The captain and Shubman Gill hammered 100 for the opening wicket, with a mammoth 91 coming in the first powerplay. From there, Virat Kohli overcame some early jitters to post a half-century, before Iyer and Rahul took over to take India to their first 400+ score of this World Cup.

Reactions: India smash 410/4 courtesy of tons from Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul

Here are some of the reactions from India’s big innings, headlined by excellent hundreds by Iyer and Rahul.

https://twitter.com/WakaAfridi/status/1723679081076826549
https://twitter.com/on_drive23/status/1723674609718112474
https://twitter.com/kritiitweets/status/1723677670142255530

Barring something remarkable from the Netherlands, India will enter the semi-finals after nine wins in the league stage. One thing is for sure, if the Indians take that form in the knockouts, they will go on to win this World Cup.

5 best surprise packet players from the 2023 Cricket World Cup

Charbel Coorey
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5 best surprise packet players from the 2023 Cricket World Cup

Cricket Opinion: 5 best surprise packet players from the 2023 Cricket World Cup | 5 players who will finish the World Cup with an enhanced reputation

A World Cup sees the best players come together in the quest for glory. The nature of the cricketing calendar means not all nations can field full-strength teams in bilaterals, but the showpiece tournament is when the best of the best arrive and put on a show.

However, the tournament is also renowned for unearthing players. 2023 was no different, with a number of players significantly enhancing their reputation throughout the World Cup. In this article, we will look at five such players.

2023 ICC Cricket World Cup: Top 5 best surprise packet players

Rachin Ravindra – New Zealand

Rachin Ravindra went from a promising talent to well and truly on the map. The 23-year old had a tournament to remember, starting off with a magnificent, unbeaten 123* to flatten England in the tournament opener.

Ravindra finished the group stage with 565 runs at an superb average of 70.62 and strike rate of 108.44, including three centuries. Our next recommendation for a YouTube video is a ten-hour loop of the sound the ball makes when it pings off Ravindra’s bat. It certainly would be a soothing listen, with his timing, placement and strokeplay a hallmark of his batting.

If that wasn’t enough, Ravindra also chipped in with five wickets, conceding less than six runs per over to offer the Black Caps another bowling option in the middle overs.

Azmatullah Omarzai – Afghanistan

Another 23-year old, this time from Afghanistan. Azmatullah Omarzai made waves in under-19 cricket, with his hitting ability catching the attention of many. But, after finding himself in and out of the Afghanistan team in recent years, it is in this tournament that he made a name for himself at senior level.

One worry for the Afghans heading into the tournament was how their middle order would fare. Rahmat Shah and Hashmatullah Shahidi were solid in the end, but Omarzai gave the team some wonderful impetus in both the middle and death overs. The all-rounder finished with 353 runs at an average of 70.60 and strike rate of 97.78, hitting three half-centures in eight innings. He fell agonisingly short of a well-deserved hundred in the last game against South Africa, but his arrival has well and truly been announced.

Add to that his bowling. He may have conceded an expensive 7.10 per over, but he showed some glimpses of real quality. One such example was against Australia, where he very nearly dismissed miracle man Glenn Maxwell which would have sealed a hat-trick.

Like Ravindra, expect Azmat Omarzai to be picked up by quite a few T20 franchises around the globe.

Gerald Coetzee – South Africa

Fast bowler Gerald Coetzee, who started playing ODI cricket in March this year, has taken the most number of wickets for South Africa in a single World Cup. He took 18 wickets in seven league games, displaying the pace and fire to give the Proteas an edge in the middle overs in particular.

Also, Coetzee’s strike rate of 18.10 is the second-best of any bowler, behind only Mohammed Shami’s freakish 9.75. His intent and focus on taking wickets holds him in such good stead, along with his infectious passion that brings his teammates on the ride with him.

Dilshan Madushanka – Sri Lanka

Dilshan Madushanka was a shining light in a dark tournament for Sri Lanka. The left-armer took 21 wickets, with nine coming in the powerplay including the likes of Rohit Sharma, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, and David Warner. Not only did he swing the ball back into right-handers, but he was able to take the ball away as well with skilful use of the fingers to cut across the ball.

Sri Lanka’s next highest wicket-taker with Kasun Rajitha with eight, highlighting just how incredible Madushanka’s effort was as the others struggled. The next priority for Madushanka will be to deliver in all phases of the innings, but he certainly has the talent to do so.

Aryan Dutt – Netherlands

Aryan Dutt’s raw numbers may not look the most impressive on first glance, but the Netherlands have a very promising off-spinner on their hands. The 20-year old bowled in the powerplay in every game, finishing with a respectable economy rate of 5.17 between overs 1-10.

Given he’s been in and out of the Netherlands ODI side in recent times, this World Cup, where has taken ten wickets, can be the catalyst for a consistent run in the team moving forward. He gets nice shape on the ball, often finding spin and some bounce with his height. If he can hone in on his consistency, he can have a really solid white-ball career.

Pakistan’s poor performances in World Cups since 1999

Charbel Coorey
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Pakistan’s poor performances in World Cups since 1999

Cricket News: Pakistan’s poor performances in ODI World Cups since reaching the final in 1999 | List of Pakistan performances since 1999

Pakistan were officially eliminated from the 2023 World Cup, losing their final match against England by 94 runs. Their only chance of reaching the semi-finals was to bat first and win by a mammoth 287 runs, but that was taken out of their hands when Jos Buttler won the toss and chose to bat.

The defeat put an end to another sub-par ODI World Cup by Pakistan. They entered this tournament with great optimism given the subcontinental conditions, but their inconsistency, poor decision making and indifferent returns from key players marred their campaign.

Unfortunately, this is nothing new for Pakistan. They endured a similar tournament in 2019, where they also had to win their final league game by an improbable margin (316 runs against Bangladesh) to qualify for the semi-finals. In fact, Pakistan, who have had talented squads right throughout the 21st century, have underachieved in ODI World Cups since reaching the final in 1999, often relying on other results to go their way to proceed in the tournament.

Pakistan’s underachievement in ODI World Cups: A look at their performances since 1999

The 1990s was a memorable decade for Pakistan. They won in 1992, reached the quarter-finals in 1996 and made the final in 1999. However, it has been lean pickings since then. Here is a look at how Pakistan have fared in six ODI World Cups since the turn of the century.

2003: Group Stage

Pakistan boasted an attack featuring Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis and Shoaib Akhtar in 2003. However, the team never got going, with their batting in particular way under par.

Out of six group games, their only two wins came against Namibia and the Netherlands, where they managed just 253/9 and 255/9 respectively against inexperienced attacks. Australia, on the back of Andrew Symonds’ incredible ton, were far too good, as were England courtesy of James Anderson’s memorable spell and India thanks Sachin Tendulkar’s magnificent 98.

Pakistan’s final group game was against Zimbabwe, where they also had to win by a big margin to qualify for the Super Sixes. However, the match ended in a no-result, confirming their elimination. “We played poor cricket throughout the World Cup,” said then captain Waqar Younis to Ian Healy in the post-match presentation. “We don’t deserve to be there.”

Cricket News: Pakistan's poor performances in ODI World Cups since reaching the final in 1999 | List of Pakistan performances since 1999
2003 was one of Pakistan’s worst World Cups

2007: Group Stage

Pakistan were on the wrong end of one of the great World Cup upsets. On the same day where Bangladesh all but knocked India out, Ireland did the same to Inzamam-ul-Haq’s team, pulling off an incredible victory.

Pakistan, who chose to bat, were bundled out for 132 courtesy of excellent Irish bowling and awful batting. Despite a big push with the ball, Pakistan couldn’t defend their paltry total, with Niall O’Brien’s 72 guiding his team to a famous three-wicket victory.

The result knocked Pakistan out after a poor performance first up against West Indies. They ended up winning their final match against Zimbabwe, but their performances, along with the tragic death of coach Bob Woolmer, marked a dark period for Pakistan cricket.

“The way the team has lost is the most disgraceful performance since the World Cup started. The entire nation is shocked,” said Senator Mohammad Enver Baig.

Inzamam-ul-Haq finished his ODI career in the group stage of the 2007 World Cup.

2011: Semi-Finals

Pakistan’s 2011 performance formed much of the optimism before their 2023 campaign. Except for a Kamran Akmal and Ross Taylor-led defeat against New Zealand, Misbah-ul-Haq’s team won all their group games, including ending Australia’s 34-match unbeaten streak in World Cups. They then made a mockery of West Indies in the quarter-final in Mirpur, setting up a major showdown with India in the semi-final.

Much has been made of Saeed Ajmal’s delivery to Sachin Tendulkar that hawkeye deemed was going down the legside. However, the semi-final could have gone differently had Pakistan found their groove in the middle overs. Chasing 261, Pakistan couldn’t get going after a promising start, eventually falling short by 29 runs at Mohali.

Pakistan played well in 2011 but just fell short.

2015: Quarter-Finals

Pakistan’s 2015 campaign began to mirror those of 2003 and 2007 in the early stages. Heavy defeats to India and West Indies put them on the backfoot, before a tight, nervy win over Zimbabwe, where they fell to 155/6, got them off the mark.

Misbah-ul-Haq’s team won their final three group games against UAE, South Africa and Ireland to qualify for the quarter-finals. However, as has often been the case in World Cups, Pakistan’s batting felt it was lacking the necessary impact to go all the way. It happened to be the case against a red-hot Australia side, with Pakistan mustering just 213 in excellent batting conditions at Adelaide.

Rahat Ali’s dropped catch off the back of Wahab Riaz’s magnificent spell to Shane Watson spelt the end of Pakistan’s 2015 campaign that was okay, but nothing more.

Wahab Riaz did his best for Pakistan in 2015.

2019: Group Stage

A horror start to the 2019 World Cup meant Pakistan were playing catch up. They won one of their first four completed matches, with the huge defeat against West Indies (seven wickets, 218 balls to spare) proving very costly along with the washout against Sri Lanka.

In the end, that heavy defeat to the Windies meant Pakistan missed out on net run rate despite winning their last four games. Their inability to put their best cricket together on a regular basis was on show again, putting in under-par performances against Australia and India when it mattered most.

Babar Azam was solid in 2019, but it wasn’t enough for Pakistan to qualify.

2023: Group Stage

Another World Cup, another “what if” for Pakistan. Once again, Pakistan lost consecutive matches (four) to put themselves in serious danger of missing the semi-finals, which they eventually did.

While some Pakistan fans may suggest the umpire’s call against South Africa cost them a semi-final spot, the truth is the team have only themselves to blame. Nine games is a long time, and if you don’t end up qualifying for the final four, you haven’t been good enough.

Pakistan’s three main spinners offered very little by way of wickets or control. Babar Azam did not influence games his status suggests he should. Haris Rauf conceded the most runs by any bowler in a World Cup, and Shaheen Shah Afridi took just three wickets in the powerplay all tournament.

If Pakistan are to make an impact in the 2027 World Cup, they must review their current strategy and ensure they have enough talent coming through in the 50-over format. If not, it will be a similar story in South Africa.

Pakistan had another disappointing campaign in 2023.

Glenn Maxwell likely to be rested against Bangladesh at Pune

Charbel Coorey
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Glenn Maxwell likely to be rested against Bangladesh at Pune

Cricket News: Glenn Maxwell update – star all-rounder likely to be rested for dead-rubber against Bangladesh at Pune

Superstar all-rounder Glenn Maxwell is likely to be rested for Australia’s final league game against Bangladesh at Pune on Saturday. Maxwell, fresh off one of the all-time great ODI knocks on Tuesday, is still recovering from the full-body cramps that he overcame in an incredible innings.

According to a report in cricket.com.au, Maxwell is still feeling the effects of a big day against Afghanistan in very hot conditions at Mumbai. Given his importance to the team and the fact a semi-final against South Africa is to come during the week, Australia will be well served putting Maxwell on ice to ensure he’s right to go for the big knockout match.

Glenn Maxwell expected to be rested against Bangladesh, Steve Smith set to return

Assistant coach Daniel Vettori confirmed Maxwell has been in recovery mode in recent days. He said that the team will see how the all-rounder pulls up, but he hinted that the semi-final is the main priority.

“He’s definitely been in full recovery mode the last few days. I think we all saw the effects of the innings and in particular the heat,” said Vettori.

“Today’s [Friday] a big day to see how he pulls up. We’ll just see how he feels as the day continues on but it’s obviously been pretty hectic for him the last few days.

“It’ll be how he feels – I don’t think it’ll be a fitness-test scenario. We understand that obviously now that the semi-final is pretty definitive in Kolkata that it will be a build towards that.

“He does have a track record of being able to bounce back pretty quickly, even with some time away from the game.”

Steve Smith is expected to come into the XI. He missed the Afghanistan game after suffering from vertigo, but has not shown any of the dizziness symptoms that plagued his preparation for that clash. In fact, he played golf during the week.

Also, Australia could rest one or more of their frontline pace bowlers, with Sean Abbott expected to make the XI. The team management also have the option of playing Cameron Green in place of one of the quicks as the all-rounder can offer overs with his seam.

Australia’s possible playing XI against Bangladesh: 1. David Warner, 2. Travis Head, 3. Mitchell Marsh, 4. Steve Smith, 5. Marnus Labuschagne, 6. Marcus Stoinis, 7. Josh Inglis/Alex Carey (wk), 8. Cameron Green, 9. Sean Abbott, 10. Pat Cummins/Mitchell Starc/Josh Hazlewood, 11. Adam Zampa

Spotlight on Mumbai pollution ahead of Cricket World Cup semi-final

Charbel Coorey
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Spotlight on Mumbai pollution ahead of Cricket World Cup semi-final

Cricket News: Mumbai pollution worsens ahead of Cricket World Cup semi-final | Mumbai set to host semi-final between India and New Zealand

The race to the semi-finals of the 2023 World Cup has created many talking points and fantastic memories. Afghanistan made a strong push, thwarted by one of the greatest – if not the greatest – ODI innings of all-time by Glenn Maxwell. Pakistan were sitting, waiting, and wishing for a New Zealand defeat against Sri Lanka, but it wasn’t to be as the Black Caps arrested a four-game losing streak.

Unfortunately, however, air pollution has marred the backend of the tournament. The pollution in Delhi, which saw the air quality index (AQI) rise above 400, led to Bangladesh and Sri Lanka cancelling training sessions ahead of their match. The game eventually went ahead in hazy conditions, with controversy, as well as poor air quality, engulfing the match.

The Sri Lankan team during a training session in hazy Delhi.

Mumbai pollution concerns: 4 in 5 families complain of side-effects

There are no further matches in Delhi in this World Cup, but the air quality concerns don’t end there. Pollution has engulfed Mumbai, the host city of one of the semi-finals. A survey of residents in Mumbai has revealed that 4-in-5 families have suffered from a sore throat or cough due to the city’s deteriorating air quality. In addition, 44% of those surveyed encountered burning eyes.

The recent match between Afghanistan and Australia at Wankhede, which will be remembered for Glenn Maxwell’s brilliance, the air quality index was 14 times worse than the safe limit, with fireworks banned after the match.

“BCCI [Board of Control for Cricket in India] is sensitive to environmental concerns. I took up the matter formally with the ICC and there won’t be any fireworks display in Mumbai, which can add to the pollution level.” BCCI secretary Jay Shah said in a statement earlier this month.

“The board is committed to combating environmental issues and will always place the interest of our fans and stakeholders at the forefront.”

Earlier this month, India captain Rohit Sharma expressed concerns about the air pollution in Mumbai and Delhi. He said it’s important future generations live without fear.

“Looking at our future generations, your kids, my kid. Obviously it is important that they get to live without any fear. Every time I get to speak outside of cricket, or not discussing cricket, I always talk about this. We have to look after our future generations,” he said.

Previously, England batsman Joe Root said he has never encountered conditions that he did in Mumbai. He also rose the air quality issue following England’s defeat to South Africa.

“I’ve not played in anything like that before,” said Root. “I’ve obviously played in hotter conditions, and probably more humid conditions, but it just felt like you couldn’t get your breath. It was like you were eating the air.”

“It felt like quite a hazy day,” he continued. “You could definitely see that from one side of the ground, looking back towards the sun, it was a lot harder visually than it was on the other side of the ground. Whether it was air quality or what, it was definitely an experience I’ve not had before.”

Also, ESPNcricinfo journalist Matt Roller documented the situation in Mumbai and Delhi. “I arrived in Bengaluru on Sunday and feel like I can breathe again”, he wrote on October 25. “I had spent five days in Delhi, then six in Mumbai, and the combination of lower temperatures and better air quality over the last 48 hours has been so refreshing: Bengaluru is cool enough to walk around without breaking a sweat within five minutes, and I have been grateful for some fresher air.”

Officials will continue to monitor conditions ahead of the semi-final on 15 November, as they have done for matches in Delhi and Mumbai in this tournament.

Hilarious reactions to Angelo Mathews arriving to the crease in time vs New Zealand

Charbel Coorey
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Hilarious reactions to Angelo Mathews arriving to the crease in time vs New Zealand

Cricket News: Hilarious reactions to Angelo Mathews arriving to the crease in time vs New Zealand | Reactions to Angelo Mathews vs NZ

New Zealand all but sealed their passage to the 2023 World Cup semi-finals with a clinical takedown of Sri Lanka at Bengaluru. The Black Caps bowlers, led by Trent Boult, were far too good for the Sri Lankans, who only reached 171 thanks to a dogged last wicket stand between Maheesh Theekshana and Dilshan Madushanka.

One little subplot in the Sri Lanka innings was Angelo Mathews walking to bat. Just a few days ago, the World Cup had its most controversial moment when Mathews was timed out against Bangladesh. Shakib Al Hasan upheld his appeal after Mathews’ helmet strap broke before his first ball, leading to a fiery encounter and criticism even from Bangladesh bowling coach Allan Donald.

In the New Zealand game, commentators Simon Doull, Michael Atherton and Sunil Gavaskar paid close attention as Mathews walked quite quickly to the crease. Trent Boult made a cheeky comment to Mathews, who then received a pat from captain Kane Williamson. It was a light-hearted moment after the heated row of another drama-filled Sri Lanka-Bangladesh match.

Reactions – Angelo Mathews makes it to his crease in time!

Fans on social media were all over it as well, sharing memes and jokes before and during Mathews’ journey to the Bengaluru crease. Mathews was eventually dismissed for 16 off 27 balls, which is likely to have been his final ODI innings.

If it was indeed Mathews’ final innings, he finishes ODI cricket with 5,916 runs at an average of 40.24 with 40 half-centuries and three hundreds. This is along with 7,361 Test runs at 45.43 as well as over 1,000 T20I runs.

What margin do Pakistan need to beat England by to qualify for the World Cup semi-finals?

Charbel Coorey
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What margin do Pakistan need to beat England by to qualify for the World Cup semi-finals?

Cricket News: A look at the margin Pakistan needs to beat England by to pull off a miracle qualification to the World Cup semi-finals

The New Zealand-Sri Lanka match had plenty riding on it. Not only did the Black Caps have their own fans glued to the important clash, but Pakistan and Afghanistan had their fingers crossed for a Sri Lankan victory.

However, New Zealand won easily with five wickets and 160 balls to spare after restricting Sri Lanka to 171 despite a fighting last wicket partnership between Dilshan Madushanka and Maheesh Theekshana. As a result, Pakistan now need a miracle to qualify for the 2023 World Cup semi-finals, while Afghanistan need to beat South Africa by 487 runs, which would be the cricketing miracle to end all cricketing miracles.

Pakistan need to win by 287-run margin to qualify

Babar Azam’s team must bat first against England at Eden Gardens and need to win by at least a mammoth 287 runs to qualify. Fakhar Zaman’s superb form since returning from injury provides hope for the huge score they need to give themselves a chance, but they need absolutely everything to go right, from the toss right through to execution.

If Pakistan bat second, they have next to no chance of qualifying as they will need to win with approximately 284 balls to spare.

If Pakistan score a huge 450 batting first, they will qualify if they restrict England to 161 or fewer. However, any score of 386 or less, and Pakistan must bowl England out for under 100 to qualify.

The scenario is eerily similar to the 2019 World Cup. After a slow start to their campaign in England, Pakistan then strung wins together but needed to beat Bangladesh by 316 runs to qualify for the semi-finals of that edition. They ended up winning by 94 runs with Shaheen Shah Afridi taking 6/35, but their campaign came to an end.

As things stand in the 2023 World Cup, high-flying India will take on New Zealand in a repeat of 2019 World Cup semi-final. Australia will take on South Africa in the other semi-final.

Meg Lanning retires from international cricket

Charbel Coorey
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Meg Lanning retires from international cricket

Cricket News: Meg Lanning announces shock retirement from international cricket | Why did Meg Lanning retire from internationals?

Australia captain Meg Lanning has announced her retirement from international cricket, aged 31. The shock announcement comes after Lanning missed Australia’s Australia’s tour of the UK due to a medical issue, as well as home ODI and T20I assignments against West Indies.

Lanning returned to cricket in the WNCL for Victoria, and is currently captaining Melbourne Stars in the WBBL. She is set to continue playing domestic cricket in the meantime.

Lanning’s retirement comes after taking a series of personal breaks. After Australia won Commonwealth Games gold in 2022, Lanning took mental health leave, culminating in her missing Australia’s December tour of India soon before the successful 2023 T20 World Cup campaign, which happens to be her last appearance in the green and gold.

Now is the right time for me to retire – Meg Lanning

In a statement, Lanning said it’s now the right time to move onto something new after 13 years at the top.

“The decision to step away from international cricket was a difficult one to make, but I feel now is the right time for me,” said Lanning.

“I’ve been incredibly fortunate to enjoy a 13-year international career, but I know now is the right time for me to move on to something new. Team success is why you play the game, I’m proud of what I have been able to achieve and will cherish the moments shared with teammates along the way.”

“I’d like to thank my family, my teammates, Cricket Victoria, Cricket Australia and the Australian Cricketers’ Association for their support to allow me to play the game I love at the highest level.

“I also want to say a huge thank you to all the fans who have supported me throughout my international career.”

A list of Meg Lanning’s most incredible achievements

Lanning ends her career as one of Australia’s greatest. After debuting at 18 years of age in 2010, Lanning has gone on to play 241 matches for Australia across formats, finishing as one of the country’s finest batters and most successful captains.

Captaincy achievements:

  • Four T20 World Cup titles.
  • ODI World Cup title.
  • Commonwealth Games title.

Batting achievements:

  • Youngest Australian female to score a century (18).
  • 15 ODI centuries, the most of any female player in history.
  • ODI batting average of 53.51, the most of any female player with at least 4,000 runs.
  • Second-highest run-scorer in women’s T20I history (3,405).

“We look forward to celebrating Meg’s distinguished international career at an appropriate time,” said Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley.

And what an international career it was.

Twitter reactions to unbelievable Glenn Maxwell 201* against Afghanistan

Charbel Coorey
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Twitter reactions to unbelievable Glenn Maxwell 201* against Afghanistan

Cricket News: Twitter reactions to Glenn Maxwell’s unbelievable 201* against Afghanistan | Glenn Maxwell smashes incredible innings against Afghanistan

“I wonder what Mujeeb must be thinking,” said Ricky Ponting on commentary with Glenn Maxwell batting on 175*. Mujeeb dropped Maxwell when the latter was on 33, but even then, no one could have possibly imagined what would happen next.

With Australia reeling and all but gone at 91/7 chasing 292, Maxwell went into ballistic mode, producing arguably the greatest innings in One Day International history to guide Australia home to a three-wicket win. He and Pat Cummins finished with an unbeaten 202-run stand, with the captain contributing just 12. Quite extraordinary.

Not only did Maxwell smash the first-ever double century by an Australian in ODIs, he is the first male player from any country to achieve a double ton when chasing. And he did it battling severe cramps. Soon after reaching his century, Maxwell was barely able to walk, bringing doubt as to whether he could go on and do the unthinkable.

The unthinkable he did. It seemed like Maxwell’s feet were stuck in concrete, yet he was still able to smash fours and sixes using his arms, wrist and core to bring Australia closer. In the end, Maxwell hammered 21 fours and ten sixes in an innings no one who witnessed it will ever forget.

Credit also goes to Pat Cummins. The captain batted 50+ balls in an innings for the first time in ODIs, holding firm at one end. He and the Australian team, as well as the spectators, commentators and viewers, were in disbelief as Australia sealed their semi-final qualification in the most remarkable of circumstances.

Reactions to extraordinary Glenn Maxwell 201* against Afghanistan

Twitter went into overdrive. Many believe it’s the greatest ODI innings of all time. An unbelievable effort indeed.

“From Max pressure to Max performance! This has been the best ODI knock I’ve seen in my life,” tweeted the great Sachin Tendulkar.

“That’s the best ODI innings I’ve ever seen. Staggering, staggering batting. Double tons are normally a crowning of an ODI career, an individual achievement that stands aside from the game – that was a team knock. A double ton in a second innings is a mad, mad thing. What a man,” another fan said.

Here are some of the reactions to an incredible innings.

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