New Zealand fast bowler Trent Boult is eagerly looking forward to a potential World Cup semi-final against India.
In the match against Sri Lanka in Bengaluru, New Zealand showcased dominance by winning by five wickets and chasing down 172 runs in just 23.2 overs. This victory has increased their chances of playing the semi-finals.
“Always, the biggest challenge here (in India) is to come across different conditions and conditions that change throughout the tournament,” said Boult. “Everyone wants a piece of the host nation. They are playing phenomenal cricket. Time will tell what will happen. I am sure it will be an exciting game.”
New Zealand hammered a significant blow to the semi-final aspirations of Pakistan and Afghanistan with a convincing victory over Sri Lanka in their final league match. The Black Caps elevated their nett run rate to a significant +0.743.
India, South Africa and Australia have already secured spots in the semi-finals. Pakistan and Afghanistan have mathematical possibilities.
On the prospects of playing their fifth consecutive World Cup semi-final, New Zealand captain Kane Williamson said: “A few teams can end up on the same points, it’s about control. Hopefully we can get a couple of days off, we’ll be hanging around, not really sure what we’ll do. Hopefully if things go our way, would be great to be involved in a semi-final.”
Reflecting on the game against New Zealand, Sri Lankan skipper Kusal Mendis attributed the loss to the early setbacks. “We lost 4 wickets in the first 10 overs and that’s what got us into trouble,” said Mendis. “We could have easily gotten 300 on this pitch.”