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The pulsating 1st semi-final of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 between India and New Zealand at the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai was marked by a brilliant batting display from India and turned into a historic cricketing spectacle with former India captain Virat Kohli surpassing legendary Sachin Tendulkar’s record of most ODI centuries.
The high-stakes encounter between two cricketing powerhouses not only showcased masterful performances from India’s batting maestros but also witnessed Daryl Mitchell‘s breathtaking century and a colossal six by him that reverberated through the cricketing world.
A day of high stakes and high scores
The stage was set, and the stakes were high as India won the toss and opted to bat first, amassing an imposing total of 397-4 in their allotted 50 overs. The Indian top-order delivered in style, with notable contributions from Rohit Sharma (47 off 29), Shubman Gill (80 off 66), Virat Kohli (117 off 113), and Shreyas Iyer (105 off 70). The scoreboard painted a daunting target for the Kiwis, setting the scene for an enthralling chase.
Kane Williamson’s grit and Daryl Mitchell’s brilliance
New Zealand’s response was led by their captain, Kane Williamson, who displayed resilience with a composed 69 off 73 balls. However, it was Mitchell who emerged as the true star among the top-order batters, crafting a brilliant century that not only kept his team in the contest but also electrified the atmosphere in the stadium.
Also READ: Virat Kohli sets social media ablaze with his record-shattering ton against New Zealand at Wankhede
Mitchell’s magnum opus: The record-breaking six
The memorable and awe-inspiring moment of Mitchell’s innings came when he faced a delivery from the renowned Indian all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja and hammered the biggest six of the ODI World Cup 2023.
The magic happened during the fifth ball of the 27th over when Jadeja delivered a perfectly pitched in-slot delivery to Mitchell, and he smacked it With a quick shuffle of his front leg. Mitchell hoisted the ball high into the Mumbai sky, sending it soaring over long-on and depositing it into the second tier.
The sheer power and precision of Mitchell’s shot left the cricketing world in awe. The six was a colossal 107 meters long, making it the biggest of the entire tournament. As the ball sailed into the stands, the Wankhede Stadium erupted in cheers, and fans around the world marvelled at the audacity and skill displayed by the Kiwi batter.
