In a display of exceptional bowling prowess, Mohammed Shami took home a career-best seven wickets in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup semifinal between India and New Zealand. This remarkable feat earned him the admiration of his teammates, including Ravi Ashwin, who was seen kissing Shami’s hand in the dressing room.
Shami’s outstanding performance played a pivotal role in securing India’s victory over New Zealand by a convincing 70 runs. This triumph propelled India into the tournament’s final, where they will face the victors of the second semifinal.
Earlier in the match, India posted an imposing total of 397 runs after winning the toss and opting to bat first. Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer led the charge with impressive centuries, scoring 117 and 105, respectively.
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In response to India’s formidable target, Shami unleashed a whirlwind of wickets, decimating the New Zealand batting lineup. His career-best figures of 7/57 showcased his exceptional control and skill, earning him the Player of the Match award. Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Kuldeep Yadav also contributed with one wicket each.
Raw emotions & pure joy post a special win at Wankhede 🏟️
Thank you to all the fans for the unwavering support 💙
WATCH 🎥🔽 – By @28anand#TeamIndia | #CWC23 | #MenInBlue | #INDvNZ | @yuzi_chahal https://t.co/8fhKUtO1Ae
— BCCI (@BCCI) November 16, 2023
Ashwin kissing the hand of Shami after the 7 wicket haul in Semis. pic.twitter.com/hoQPDfYysf
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) November 16, 2023
Shami’s remarkable performance is a testament to his unwavering dedication and resilience. Despite being initially benched for the first four games, he made a significant impact upon his return, claiming five wickets against New Zealand in Dharamshala. This stellar form continued with another fifer against Sri Lanka in Mumbai, where he achieved a career-best figure of 5/18.
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Shami’s historic seven-wicket haul against New Zealand further cemented his place as a bowling force to be reckoned with. His impressive record of 23 wickets in six innings, with an average of 9.13 and an economy rate of 5.01, serves as a testament to his unwavering commitment to the sport. Shami’s exceptional performance is a source of pride for India and a beacon of inspiration for aspiring cricketers worldwide.
