In the first semifinal of the ongoing ODI World Cup 2023, India locked horns with New Zealand at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. In the high-voltage clash, India posted 397/4 in 50 overs. Meanwhile, New Zealand failed to chase the target as they were bundled up for 327 runs.
The high-scoring game saw Indian pacer Mohammad Shami outshine everyone with his amazing bowling performance. Shami, in his 9.3-over spells, clinched seven wickets by conceding 57 runs. This is the first time in ODI cricket that an Indian bowler has taken seven wickets. With this, Shami single-handedly changed the momentum of the game and helped India secure a berth in the finals.
In his seven wickets, Shami dismissed Devon Conway, Rachin Ravindra, Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham, Tim Southee, and Lockie Ferguson. For his amazing performance, Shami was awarded man of the match for the third time in the ongoing tournament. He also became the fastest player to clinch 50+ wickets in ODI World Cup history. He achieved this feat in just 17 innings, breaking Mitchell Starc’s record.
PM Narendra Modi praises Mohammad Shami
After India’s victory, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to social media platform X and expressed his happiness over the team’s performance. The PM also praised Shami and Kohli for their amazing performances and milestones. Speaking about Shami, PM Modi said, “Today’s semi-final has been even more special thanks to stellar individual performances too.”
“The bowling by @MdShami11 in this game and also through the World Cup will be cherished by cricket lovers for generations to come. Well played, Shami,”, he further added. Meanwhile, praising Kohli for his 50th ODI, PM Modi said, “Today, @imVkohli has not just scored his 50th ODI century but has also exemplified the spirit of excellence and perseverance that defines the best of sportsmanship. This remarkable milestone is a testament to his enduring dedication and exceptional talent. I extend heartfelt congratulations to him. May he continue setting a benchmark for future generations.”
Here is how prominent figures praise Mohmmad Shami:
Today’s Semi Final has been even more special thanks to stellar individual performances too.
The bowling by @MdShami11 in this game and also through the World Cup will be cherished by cricket lovers for generations to come.
Well played Shami!
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 15, 2023
Superb bowling by man of the match, Mohammad Shami!
His consistent match winning performances have made him a standout player in this World Cup. pic.twitter.com/x14gZe2OZe
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) November 15, 2023
7 wkt in a WC semi final, India is blessed to have such a genuine match winner. #shami pic.twitter.com/UQFHLGDXQj
— Mohammad Kaif (@MohammadKaif) November 15, 2023
KL the silent slayer. Such a valuable player. ?
And Mohd Shami aap toh karva hee dete ho batsman ko yaad unki mummy. ? pic.twitter.com/HLfFCGmwrk
— Ayushmann Khurrana (@ayushmannk) November 15, 2023
What a Shami-final!!!!!!
Well done India for a superb batting display and a spectacular bowling performance to get into the final. ???#INDvNZ pic.twitter.com/XtqZWQvcJT— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) November 15, 2023
Rohit to Shami this WC #INDvNZ #CWC2023 pic.twitter.com/AjTD0buUYH
— Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) November 15, 2023
So elegant. So beautiful. Just looking like a WOW ?
Most people remembered the Dhoni run-out in 2019 SF. But few remember that Shami was left out for that game…to everyone’s surprise at that time.
He’s made up for it and more. Best ever ODI figures by an Indian bowler.
Take… pic.twitter.com/ZtULtipXPz— Aakash Chopra (@cricketaakash) November 15, 2023
Take a bow, Team India! ?? What a phenomenal display in the #CWC23 semi-finals. Records shattered, hearts won. Bring on the finals! ? #INDvsNZ #TeamIndia #CWC23 pic.twitter.com/zlqAVg4MQZ
— manoj bajpayee (@BajpayeeManoj) November 16, 2023