“Come finals time, anything can happen”, says Kane Williamson ahead of ‘special’ World Cup semifinal against India.

New Zealand captain Kane Williamson is gearing up for what he describes as an “extremely good challenge” as his team faces India in the semi-final of the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup on November 15 at the renowned Wankhede Stadium. This encounter marks the second consecutive time that India and the Kiwis will meet in the knockout stage of the ODI World Cup, following their epic semi-final clash in the 2019 edition.

In a recent statement, Williamson expressed his confidence in the emerging talent of Rachin Ravindra, who has emerged as the leading run-scorer for the New Zealand side in this tournament. Ravindra has showcased remarkable form, amassing 565 runs at an impressive average of 70.62 and a notable strike rate of 108.44 during the group stage. The 23-year-old batsman has recorded three centuries and two half-centuries, making him a key asset for the Kiwis.

“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,”  said Williamson.

Williamson also acknowledged India’s formidable performance in the competition, having secured victories in all nine group stage matches. The New Zealand captain emphasized that the team exhibiting the best cricket on the day will ultimately claim the coveted title, saying

“The underdog thing.. from what you guys write, I don’t think it has changed too much. But that’s fine. India have 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.” 

As the highly-anticipated semi-final approaches, cricket enthusiasts can expect a thrilling clash between two cricketing powerhouses, and Kane Williamson’s faith in his team, coupled with the promising performances of players like Rachin Ravindra, adds an intriguing dimension to the upcoming match.