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Semi Finalists, New Zealand is gearing up for the semi-final clash against the formidable Indian team, which has remained unbeaten in all the 9 league matches, their strongest hope would be from a clash four years back in a near-similar situation in which the Kiwis had triumphed.
But past is past, and this World Cup tournament many histories has being created!
Just a day is left for the make-or-break clash between India and New Zealand, former New Zealand player Ross Taylor made an attempt to play mind games and reminded India of the outcome of the 2019 World Cup semi-final clash. Back then, India's formidable run was halted as New Zealand defeated the Virat Kohli-led side in the rain-affected semifinal at Manchester.
Taylor on Monday suggested that India might be feeling nervous about facing New Zealand in the World Cup, drawing comparisons to both teams' campaigns in the 2019 edition.
Similar to 2019, India entered the semifinals as the table-topping team. On the other hand, New Zealand, despite starting the current tournament strongly, concluded the league stage in fourth place with five wins in nine games.
"As New Zealand prepare to take on India in the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2023 semi-finals, it is impossible not to look back at the parallels with 2019," Taylor, who was part of that semifinal in Manchester, told ICC.
"Four years ago, India went into the semi-final as the form side in the tournament, while we were more focused on ensuring our net run-rate would keep Pakistan out of reach for the final spot in the top four.
"This time around, India are even bigger favourites, at home and having played so well during the group stage. But when we have nothing to lose, New Zealand teams can be dangerous.
"If there is a team that India will be nervous facing, it will be this New Zealand side," said the one of the most prolific batters from New Zealand.
However, New Zealand's task will be herculean given the current form of the Indian team.