5 Reasons Why India's Victory Over New Zealand Is Memorable

image-lo2pj82kVirat Kohli scored a match-winning 95

Team India continued their unbeaten run in World Cup 2023, defeating New Zealand and securing the top spot on the points table.

India continued with their unbeaten streak in World Cup 2023

After opting to field, India quickly took two wickets in the powerplay, courtesy of Mohammed Siraj and Mohammed Shami. However, New Zealand's Rachin Ravindra and Daryl Mitchell forged a 159-run partnership, with Mitchell scoring a brilliant 130. Shami claimed him as his fifth wicket of the day, with New Zealand setting a target of 273.

In response, openers Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill provided a brisk 71-run start before both were taken by Lockie Ferguson. Virat Kohli played a steady inning of 95, partnering with Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul. Ultimately, Ravindra Jadeja's unbeaten 39 guided India to a four-wicket victory with two overs to spare.

Here’s a look at 5 reasons why India’s victory over New Zealand is memorable.

1. Breaking the 20-Year Jinx Against New Zealand in ICC Tournaments: The victory holds historical significance as India managed to break a 20-year jinx against the Kiwis. The Men in Blue hadn’t managed to taste victory against New Zealand in any ICC tournaments for the last two decades. This includes participation in two T20 World Cups, one ODI World Cup, and the World Test Championship. The last taste of success against New Zealand dates back to World Cup 2023 in South Africa, making this win a monumental feat.

2. The Dravid Saga - A Circle of Cricketing Fate: Rahul Dravid’s association with victories over New Zealand holds an uncanny symmetry. In 2003, as a pivotal player, he was at the heart of India's win. Fast forward 20 years, and Dravid, now the head coach, masterminded yet another memorable win. His journey from the pitch to the pavillion is a symbol of cricket's poetic justice.




3. Ravindra Jadeja's Timely Return to Form: Ravindra Jadeja's contribution in the game cannot be understated. Leading up to World Cup 2023, his batting form had been a point of concern for fans and critics alike. And, even though he hadn't had the opportunity to showcase his batting skills in the first four games when the moment arose against New Zealand, Jadeja seized it. Coming in during a difficult juncture in the chase, his unbeaten knock of 39 not only reassured his teammates but also the millions of fans, ultimately steering India to a significant win.

4. Mohammed Becomes Only Indian With Two Fifers in World Cups: In sports, the best stories are often those of comebacks, and Mohammed Shami's tale against New Zealand is no different. After being on the sidelines for the first four games, Shami got his chance against New Zealand, thanks to an unfortunate injury to Hardik Pandya. And boy, did he deliver! Recording figures of 5/54 in 10 overs, Shami secured a five-wicket haul, making him the first Indian pacer to achieve this feat twice in ODI World Cup history.

5. Kohli’s Masterclass in Chasing: Last, but certainly not least, is Virat Kohli’s impeccable innings. Renowned globally for his chasing skills, Kohli once again demonstrated why he's one of the best in the business. Scoring a magnificent 95 runs, he was the bedrock of India's chase. Although he narrowly missed out on his 49th ODI century by just 5 runs, his innings, filled with eight fours and two sixes, was a masterclass in pacing a chase, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.