India vs NZ semi-final: Key battles to watch out for
Team India will be up against New Zealand in the first semi-final of the ICC World Cup 2019. A key battle is on the cards at Old Trafford in Manchester on Tuesday. Several star players will look to have an influence in this semi-final match. India enter as the favorites and here are the key battles to watch out for.
Trent Boult versus Rohit Sharma could set the tempo
With cloudy conditions on offer at Old Trafford, it remains to be seen how much swing can be extracted. These conditions make someone like a Trent Boult even more lethal. The Master of Swing can trouble Rohit Sharma, who has issues against the ball coming in after being pitched on the middle stump. But with Rohit in prime form, a stern battle is expected.
Lockie Ferguson versus Virat Kohli promises to be exciting
Lockie Ferguson has bowled well so far in CWC 19. The fast bowler will be eyeing the crucial wicket of in-form Virat Kohli. Ferguson will look to target the right areas outside the off stump and tease Kohli with his pace and variations. Meanwhile, Kohli will be looking to gain the momentum and he can be menacing for Ferguson with his stroke-play and range.
India's spinners can target New Zealand powerhouses
India could be tempted to play Ravindra Jadeja alongside one wrist-spinner. Yuzvendra Chahal is likely to get the cut. He has looked sharp in CWC 19. Against the Kiwis, both spinners will look to up the ante against Kane Williamson and Ross Taylor. Both these batsmen are excellent players of spin. India will need to contain them. Therefore, a close contest is expected.
Jasprit Bumrah versus Kiwi openers will be enticing
Jasprit Bumrah can set the stage alive with his brilliance upfront. The in-form pacer has been excellent with his wicket-taking abilities. He will be targeting Henry Nicholls and Martin Guptill's scalps upfront. New Zealand have struggled to find any sort of momentum with their opening combination. India will sense an opening here. Bumrah could set the game rolling with quick scalps.
An intense battle on the cards at Old Trafford
The match is set to start at 3:00 PM IST. India go into the match as the favorites. They will be aiming to keep New Zealand under the mat. India have momentum on their side and will look to enter their fourth final.
