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ODI world cup 2023

'Ab toh confirm hai India vs New Zealand in Semi Final' - Fans react as New Zealand demolish Sri Lanka by five wickets in ODI World Cup 2023

The match held significance for Pakistan and Afghanistan, relying on New Zealand's defeat for a chance to qualify by winning their respective last games.

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Mathew K
New Update
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New Zealand (Source: Twitter)

In the 41st match of the ODI World Cup 2023, New Zealand faced Sri Lanka with distinct objectives. New Zealand aimed to secure a victory to solidify their spot in the tournament's semi-finals, while Sri Lanka sought a loss to enhance their chances of qualifying for the Champions Trophy 2025. The match held significance for Pakistan and Afghanistan, relying on New Zealand's defeat for a chance to qualify by winning their respective last games.

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However, New Zealand dominated, achieving a resounding five-wicket win over Sri Lanka. This victory positions the Kiwis strongly in the semi-finals, making it challenging for Pakistan and Afghanistan to surpass them on the points table. The prospect of facing India awaits either New Zealand, Pakistan, or Afghanistan in the semi-finals of the World Cup 2023. New Zealand's decision to bowl first paid off as their pacers, led by Trent Boult, Tim Southee, and Lockie Ferguson, dominated Sri Lanka's top order, securing four wickets in the initial 10 overs. Despite Kusal Perera's efforts, Sri Lanka struggled early in the innings.

The star leg spinner, Mahesh Theekshana emerged as a beacon of hope, stabilizing the innings and leading the resistance against the New Zealand bowlers. Although the Sri Lankan tailenders extended the innings beyond the 40th over, they were eventually bowled out for 171 runs. The partnership between Theekshana and Madushanka for the last wicket was noteworthy, adding 43 runs. Trent Boult stood out with three wickets, while Ferguson, Rachin Ravindra, and Mitchell Santner each contributed with two wickets, showcasing both wicket-taking ability and economical bowling for the Kiwis.

New Zealand chase down the target with 100 balls to spare

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In pursuit of the target, New Zealand's opening pair, Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra, kickstarted their innings with a formidable 86-run partnership for the first wicket. The duo appeared to be on track to comfortably chase down the target. However, both openers couldn't see the innings through to the end.

The star left hand batter was the first to depart, dismissed for 45 runs in the 13th over, followed by Ravindra in the very next over after contributing 42 runs. Skipper Kane Williamson had a brief stint, getting bowled out for 14 runs by Angelo Mathews. Nevertheless, Daryl Mitchell and Glenn Phillips took charge to prevent further setbacks. Despite losing a wicket as Mitchell couldn't restrain himself, they ultimately secured a 5-wicket victory in the match.

Let us look at how Twitter has reacted to this emphatic win from the Kiwis;

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