‘We know it is going to be an extremely good challenge’ – Kane Williamson sheds light on New Zealand’s preparation ahead of first Semi- Final in ODI World Cup 2023

New Zealand captain Kane Williamson expressed his anticipation for the “extremely good challenge” of facing India in the semifinal of the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup. The highly-awaited encounter is set to take place on November 15 at the iconic Wankhede Stadium. This marks the second consecutive time that India and New Zealand will meet in the knockout stage of the ODI World Cup, following their epic semifinal clash in the 2019 edition.

Ahead of the crucial encounter, Kane Williamson has expressed his confidence in the emerging talent Rachin Ravindra, who has been the team’s top run-scorer in the tournament. Ravindra has amassed an impressive total of 565 runs with an average of 70.62 and a strike rate of 108.44. The 23-year-old batsman has recorded three centuries and two fifties during the group stage, showcasing his exceptional form and contribution to the team’s success.

“Rachin has been great, the way he is scoring has been exceptional. We are expecting a sea of blue tomorrow. Special to play against India in a World Cup semi-finals. We know it is going to be an extremely good challenge. Our focus is on our cricket,” Williamson told at the time of pre-match press conference.

India has been exceptional: Kane Williamson

In addition to this, reflecting on New Zealand’s narrow four-wicket loss to India in the league stage at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamsala, Kane Williamson emphasized the shift in dynamics in the finals, stating, “Dharamsala was a great game, but when you get into finals, things change.” The 33-year-old captain acknowledged India’s formidable form in the competition, having won all nine group-stage matches. Williamson highlighted that the team exhibiting the best cricket will ultimately secure the title.

“The underdog thing.. from what you guys write, I don’t think it has changed too much. But that’s fine. India has been exceptional. They are one of the, if not the best teams going around, playing cricket that matches that. But we know as well, on that day if we play our best cricket, it certainly gives us the best chance. Come finals time, anything can happen,” he added.