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Team India star batter Suryakumar Yadav has acknowledged the intense atmosphere surrounding the upcoming World Cup 2023 semi-final against New Zealand, set to be played at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium on November 15. He recognized the high-pressure nature of this crucial match, a sentiment echoed by the team as they prepare for this significant challenge.
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The Indian cricket team has been a regular contender in the knockout stages of the ODI World Cup since 2011. This year, they have demonstrated remarkable form, winning all their league stage matches and securing the top position in the points table. In contrast, New Zealand had a strong start to the tournament, winning their initial four matches. However, their performance dipped following a defeat to India, resulting in four consecutive losses before they managed to defeat Sri Lanka and secure a place in the semi-finals.
Historically, India's performance against New Zealand in white-ball ICC events has been less than stellar, with only four victories out of fourteen matches, including one washout. This track record adds another layer of anticipation to the upcoming semi-final.
In an interview with Star Sports, Suryakumar expressed his excitement for the match, noting that while the team appears outwardly calm, there is an underlying excitement among the players. He mentioned that it would be simplistic to view the upcoming game as just another match, acknowledging the unique significance and pressure of a World Cup semi-final.
"It's a big moment. I am very excited for the game. Whenever a knockout game comes along, the excitement increases. Now, everything is very calm at the moment. But everyone is very excited. I wil, say the truth. It is always easy to say it's just another game, but it's a high-pressure game," said Suryakumar.
Suryakumar further commented on the team's mindset, noting that while the past record against New Zealand and previous experiences in knockout stages are in the players' minds, the key is to set aside these thoughts once they step onto the field. This approach highlights the team's focus on the present and their readiness to overcome past challenges in pursuit of World Cup success.
"It's human tendency to think about the past. It does stay in your mind. But it depends on how you keep it out of your mind when you enter the ground and see it as a new game and a fresh opportunity. That's how I see it and I hope the team does the same as well," Suryakumar added.
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