India coach Rahul Dravid has expressed his support for the “vibration and energy” within the squad as they prepare to face New Zealand in Wednesday’s World Cup semi-final. The match holds special significance for India as they avenge their semi-final loss to New Zealand four years ago.
In that exceptional match, New Zealand won by just 18 runs as the match was played over two days due to rain interruption. The defeat boosted India’s desire for a third World Cup title, following previous wins in 1983 and 2011.
Five players from the 2019 semi-final against New Zealand namely Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja will be back in action this Wednesday in Mumbai.
Reflecting on the team’s performance, coach Rahul Dravid acknowledged the fickleness of public opinion: “When it’s good, it’s good. “One defeat and everyone says ‘you have no idea’.” However, the team’s focus on the game remained. He insisted: “I don’t think our processes and what we’ve done in every game is going to change.”
Dravid expressed confidence in the team’s ability to handle pressure, citing their successful responses to pressure situations throughout the tournament. He further praised the strong performances of the middle-order batsmen, which complemented the consistent contribution of the top-order batsmen.
The prowess of India’s middle-order was on full display in the recent win over the Netherlands, where the top five batsmen scored 50-plus runs. Notably, Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul’s 208-run partnership took the team to a mammoth total of 410-4.
As India prepares for their semi-final clash against New Zealand, the team is relying on its experienced batsmen, with Virat Kohli leading the tournament’s batting statistics with 594 runs. The team’s performance so far has instilled confidence in both players and fans, who are confident about their chances in the upcoming tournament.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who will India play in the World Cup semi-final?
India will face New Zealand in the World Cup semi-final.
2. What was India’s previous result against New Zealand in the semi-final?
Four years ago, India lost to New Zealand by 18 runs in the semi-finals of the World Cup.
3. How many World Cup titles has India won?
India has won the World Cup twice in 1983 and 2011.
4. Who are the key players in India’s semi-final squad?
Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja are key players in the Indian squad for the semi-finals.
5. Who leads the innings batting statistics for India?
Virat Kohli leads the Indian team in the batting statistics of the tournament with 594 runs.
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