IND vs NZ Semi-Final: A history of India's performance in knockout stages of World Cup
Produced by: Tarun Mishra Designed by: Mohsin Shaikh
Unbeaten Streak
After the end of group stage in ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, India has emerged as the only unbeaten team, securing their spot in the semi-finals after a flawless performance, winning all nine matches
High-Stakes Semi-Final Against New Zealand
Now, India faces a formidable challenge on November 15, in the semi-finals against New Zealand, the team that proved to be their nemesis in the 2019 edition. The crucial encounter will take place at Mumbai's iconic Wankhede Stadium. New Zealand ended their group stage with 10 points, winning only 5 out of their 9 matches
India vs New Zealand, 2023
Under the captaincy of Rohit Sharma, the current leader, India is determined to seek redemption for their 2019 semi-final defeat against New Zealand, especially at the same venue where MS Dhoni's team lifted the trophy 12 years ago. Let's take a look at India's performance in the knockout stages of the World Cup since the inception of the tournament
Knockout Stage Performance Since 1983
India embarked on its ICC World Cup knockout journey in 1983 under the leadership of Kapil Dev. In a historic semi-final clash against hosts England at Old Trafford in Manchester, India secured a memorable victory. Kapil Dev's stellar three-wicket performance and Yashpal Sharma's crucial 61 paved the way for India to successfully chase a target of 214. Subsequently, in the final, India shocked the two-time World Champions West Indies
Mixed Fortunes in 1987
Team India successfully reached the semi-finals in 1987, however, their fortunes took a turn, when England emerged victorious at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium, defeating India by 35 runs and denying them a spot in the final
Chaos in 1996
In the 1996 World Cup, India made it to the semi-finals, but their aspirations for a second title were crushed by Sri Lanka. The semi-final clash in Kolkata against Sri Lanka took an unforeseen turn marked by crowd disruptions and hostility during India's run chase. With India collapsing at 120 for 8 while pursuing a target of 252, the umpires made the decision to call off the game, leading to Sri Lanka being declared the winner
Resurgence in 2003
After an early exit in 1999, the 2003 World Cup witnessed India's resurgence under Sourav Ganguly's captaincy, with a dominating semi-final victory over Kenya. However, their quest for the title was thwarted by a formidable Australian side led by Ricky Ponting in the final
Triumphant 2011 Campaign
In the 2011 World Cup semi-final, India established a formidable target of 260 runs for Pakistan. Under the captaincy of MS Dhoni, India secured a victory by 29 runs, securing a spot in the final against Sri Lanka. Against Sri Lanka, India successfully chased the target, with MS Dhoni sealing the triumph with a decisive six. This victory marked India's second World Cup win, highlighting a flawless blend of experience and youth in the team
Heartbreak in Sydney 2015
The 2015 World Cup semi-final against Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground ended in heartbreak for India. Despite Virat Kohli's century, Australia secured victory by 95 runs, denying India a spot in the final against New Zealand
2019 Defeat and Dhoni's Valiant Effort
In the 2019 semi-final against New Zealand, India faced defeat despite a resilient effort from MS Dhoni and Ravindra Jadeja. Batting first, New Zealand encountered challenging conditions and managed to post a modest total of 239/8. In the pursuit of the target, India's top-order collapsed against the disciplined New Zealand bowling attack, particularly the seamers. Despite the struggle, Ravindra Jadeja showcased a brilliant performance, scoring 77, and a resilient effort from MS Dhoni, who contributed with a fifty off 72 balls, brought India close to victory. However, the turning point occurred when Dhoni was run out at 216/8. His dismissal effectively ended India's fight, and they were eventually bowled out for 221, falling short by 18 runs