The stakes are rising as we approach Sunday, when the Cricket World Cup will see a clash of titans. New Zealand and the host nation, India, remain the only two unbeaten teams in the tournament, both boasting an impressive 4-0 record, with New Zealand edging ahead on net run rate.
India, widely regarded as one of the most balanced sides in the competition, has executed a flawless run, securing victories in all four matches against Australia, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. While India’s top order has been in scintillating form, with impressive centuries from Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, the untested lower middle order remains an intriguing aspect of their World Cup journey.
On the other hand, New Zealand kicked off their campaign in style, defeating the defending champions, England, by a commanding nine wickets. They followed this up with convincing victories over the Netherlands (by 99 runs), Bangladesh (by eight wickets), and Afghanistan (by 149 runs). Yet, the tougher phase of their league campaign begins on Sunday, as they prepare to face two-time champions, India, followed by matchups against Australia, South Africa, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka.
Head-to-head stats
India and New Zealand have clashed in 116 ODIs. India holds the upper hand with 58 wins, while New Zealand has triumphed 50 times. Seven matches ended without a result, and one concluded in a tie. In their most recent five ODIs, New Zealand has failed to notch a victory against India, with two of those games ending without a result.
However, when it comes to World Cups, New Zealand boasts a significant advantage. These two cricketing giants have met nine times in ICC World Cup matches. New Zealand emerged victorious in five encounters, while India clinched three victories, with one match resulting in a draw. Their last World Cup clash in 2019 was abandoned due to adverse weather. In the same year, India and New Zealand clashed in the semi-final, where India’s chase of 239 runs faltered, ultimately leading to an 18-run loss.
Pitch and weather report
Turning to the pitch and weather conditions, the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamshala has typically favored fast bowlers. However, the pitch may transform into a batsman-friendly surface as the innings progress. Interestingly, spinners had a successful outing for Bangladesh in a recent encounter against Afghanistan on this pitch, making it a subject of varying interpretations. With Hardik Pandya ruled out, India may opt for Mohammed Shami, given the pitch’s apparent suitability for fast bowling.
As for the weather forecast in Dharamshala, there is a 24% chance of rain, and temperatures are expected to reach a comfortable high of 19 degrees Celsius, according to Weather.com. The temperature is anticipated to drop further during the evening, setting the stage for what promises to be a riveting cricketing showdown.
Probable XI
India: Rohit Sharma (Captain), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (WK), Suryakumar Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Shami/Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj
New Zealand: Devon Conway, Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham (Captain/WK), Glenn Phillips, Mark Chapman, Mitchell Santner, Matt Henry, Trent Boult and Lockie Ferguson
When and where to watch?
The India vs New Zealand ODI World Cup match will begin at 2 pm (IST). Toss will take place at 1.30 pm. The game will be broadcast on the Star Sports Network in India and it can be streamed live on Disney+ Hotstar app and website.