India, the host nation for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, is gearing up for an intense final against the five-time champions, Australia, this Sunday.
In the first semifinal against New Zealand, Virat Kohli showcased his cricket prowess, scoring his 50th ODI century. This historic achievement boosted India’s confidence, extending their impressive winning streak to the title clash. Despite New Zealand’s spirited fight, India emerged victorious with a massive total of 397 for four, securing an unprecedented 10th consecutive win. However, New Zealand’s resilience did cause some nervous moments for the home team.
The second semifinal witnessed Australia’s triumph over South Africa in a closely contested match. Facing a testing turner, David Miller’s remarkable century propelled South Africa to a fighting total of 212. Although Australia faced a spirited bowling effort from the Proteas, they held their nerve and clinched the victory, setting the stage for an exciting final against arch-rivals India in Ahmedabad.
Leading the batting charts is Virat Kohli, who maintained his top position after the league stage and semifinals, amassing a remarkable 711 runs in 10 innings with an astonishing average of 101.57. On the other hand, Quinton de Kock, despite a challenging performance against Australia, concluded the tournament with 594 runs in 10 innings before announcing his retirement from the ODI format.
New Zealand’s Rachin Ravindra and Daryl Mitchell secured the third and fourth spots on the highest run-scorers list with 578 and 552 runs, respectively. Indian skipper Rohit Sharma is fifth with 550 runs, providing quick starts with a striking strike rate of 124.15.
In the bowling department, Indian pacer Mohammed Shami emerged as the leading wicket-taker with an impressive 23 wickets. Shami’s impactful performance included three five-wicket hauls, with the best figures of 7/57 against New Zealand in the semifinal. Australia’s Adam Zampa, despite going wicketless in the second semifinal, stands as the second-highest wicket-taker with 22 wickets in 10 innings.
ICC World Cup 2023 Top Run-Scorers
In the ICC ODI World Cup 2023, Virat Kohli has been a cricket sensation, showcasing an outstanding performance with 711 runs in 10 innings, boasting an incredible average of 101.57. Let’s delve into the tournament’s top run-scorers:
| Player | Runs |
|---|---|
| Virat Kohli (India) | 711 |
| Quinton de Kock (South Africa) | 594 |
| Rachin Ravindra (New Zealand) | 578 |
| Daryl Mitchell (New Zealand) | 552 |
| Rohit Sharma (India) | 550 |
Semifinal Showdowns: India vs New Zealand, Australia vs South Africa
India’s Triumph in the Semifinal against New Zealand
In a gripping semifinal against New Zealand, Virat Kohli’s historic 50th ODI century propelled India to a massive 397 for four. Despite New Zealand’s resilient fight, India secured a 70-run victory, reaching an unprecedented 10th consecutive win.
Australia’s Grit in the Second Semifinal
Australia faced off against South Africa in the second semifinal. On a challenging pitch, David Miller’s century guided South Africa to a fighting total of 212. However, Australia displayed resilience, securing a nail-biting three-wicket win and earning their spot in the final.
ICC World Cup 2023 Leading Wicket-Takers
Mohammed Shami has been a force to be reckoned with in the bowling department, leading the wicket-takers’ chart with 23 scalps in just six matches. Let’s take a closer look at the top wicket-takers:
| Player | Wickets |
|---|---|
| Mohammed Shami (India) | 23 |
| Adam Zampa (Australia) | 22 |
| Dilshan Madushanka (Sri Lanka) | 21 |
| Gerald Coetzee (South Africa) | 20 |
| Shaheen Shah Afridi (Pakistan) | 18 |
Records and Milestones
Virat Kohli’s Historic Achievement
During the semifinal against New Zealand, Virat Kohli became the highest run-scorer in a single World Cup edition, surpassing Sachin Tendulkar’s record set in 2003.
Mohammad Shami’s Bowling Brilliance
With a stellar performance in the semifinals, Mohammad Shami now holds the record for the most five-wicket hauls in World Cups, boasting four in this edition.
Other Notable Records
- Best Bowling Figures in a World Cup Match: Shami’s remarkable 7/57 against New Zealand ranks fifth in the all-time list.
- Australia’s Final Streak: With their victory against South Africa, Australia solidified their position as the team qualifying for the World Cup final the most, set to play their eighth final.
Rohit Sharma’s Milestones
Indian captain Rohit Sharma stands out with the most centuries in World Cup cricket, securing his seventh during the tournament.
Glenn Maxwell’s Explosive Century
Australia’s Glenn Maxwell broke records with the fastest century in World Cup history, achieving a 40-ball ton against Netherlands.
Highest Team Score in a World Cup Match
During the tournament, South Africa made history by scoring 428/5 against Sri Lanka, marking the highest team score in a Men’s ODI World Cup match.
Conclusion
The ICC ODI World Cup 2023 has been a rollercoaster of cricketing excitement, with Virat Kohli’s batting brilliance, Mohammad Shami’s bowling prowess, and various records etched into cricket history. The final clash between India and Australia promises to be a fitting culmination to this thrilling tournament.
