Under the captaincy of Rohit Sharma, India has displayed remarkable dominance in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023. The only team that came close to challenging them was New Zealand.
South Africa, known for their high-scoring ability and setting a record for the most sixes in a World Cup edition, was expected to pose a challenge. However, on a challenging pitch at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, they were bowled out for just 83 runs.
India’s resounding 243-run victory secured their position at the top of the points table, leading former Australian spinner Brad Hogg to suggest that there might not even be a need for a final.
After last night it looks like no need for a final, have India v rest of the world match to finish off the tournament. They have been scintillating. #CWC23 #INDvSA
— Brad Hogg (@Brad_Hogg) November 6, 2023
India commenced their World Cup campaign on October 8 against Australia, led by Pat Cummins. A strong bowling performance restricted Australia to 199 runs. Although India faced an early setback with Rohit Sharma, Ishan Kishan, and Shreyas Iyer departing without scoring, Virat Kohli’s 85 and KL Rahul’s unbeaten 97 led India to an eight-wicket victory with 52 balls to spare.
Subsequently, India continued their winning streak by defeating Afghanistan by eight wickets, Pakistan by seven wickets, and New Zealand by four wickets. They batted first against England and Sri Lanka, defeating the defending champions by 100 runs and setting a record margin of 302 runs in a victory over Sri Lanka.
India’s next match will be against the Netherlands at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on November 12, marking their final league game.
Meanwhile, if Pakistan, led by Babar Azam, secures the fourth position on the points table, India will take on Pakistan at Eden Gardens, Kolkata on November 16. Otherwise, they will face the fourth-placed team at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on November 15.
