Rohit Sharma led India Cricket Team departs for Ahmedabad, fueled by triumph in the semi-final against New Zealand. Their impeccable journey, marked by ten consecutive wins, sets the stage for a monumental ICC ODI World Cup 2023 Final. The team's resilience and skill, showcased throughout the tournament, elevate expectations for a thrilling clash against either South Africa or Australia. Cricket enthusiasts worldwide anticipate a Sunday showdown at Narendra Modi Stadium, where Team India aims to create history and seize the ODI World Cup trophy in a battle of titans.

In a historic moment at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium, cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar and football icon David Beckham engaged in a memorable jersey exchange during India's triumphant semi-final clash against New Zealand in the 2023 World Cup. Tendulkar presented Beckham with a Team India jersey, while Beckham reciprocated with Inter Miami's Lionel Messi jersey. The gesture, captured on camera, added a touch of glamour to the cricketing arena. Beckham, UNICEF's goodwill ambassador, expressed his joy at witnessing Virat Kohli's stellar performance, calling the experience "truly incredible" in an interview with the official broadcaster.

South Africa's innings ended at 212 in the World Cup semi-final against Australia at Eden Gardens. After being 44/4 when rain stopped play at 14 overs, David Miller's brilliant 101 off 116 balls powered the recovery. He was supported by a 47-run knock from Heinrich Klaasen as the duo added 91 runs. But Travis Head broke their stand to put Australia back on top. Miller reached his 2nd century of the tournament before departing. Despite his heroics, South Africa limped to 212, leaving Australia as 87% favorites to reach the final based on 'live win' probability. After blowing away the top order early, Australia is firmly in control and on the cusp of a World Cup final against India.

UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador David Beckham visited India this week to see firsthand how UNICEF-supported programs empower girls and women. In Gujarat, Beckham met with activists helping girls avoid child marriage and labor to continue schooling. He visited an innovation center getting girls into entrepreneurship. UNICEF works with India to boost girls’ skills, education, and opportunities. COVID-19 increased gender inequality in South Asia, with girls and women bearing the brunt. The football legend also demonstrated his cricketing skills in India, managing to get in a few runs while playing with school children. Later Beckham attended the India vs New Zealand semi-finals and was seen applauding Vira Kohli after his record-breaking century run. [Video by: BeanymanSports]

In the World Cup 2nd semi-final that is being played at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata, India, Australia blew away South Africa's top order before rain arrived after 14 overs. South Africa won the toss and chose to bat first at Eden Gardens but limped to 22/3 in 11 overs as Starc and Hazlewood were relentless. Key batsman de Kock fell to make it 23/4 in the 12th over, bringing together finishers Klaasen and Miller. South Africa was 44/4 at the end of 14 overs before rain stopped play. However, as the match starts again, SA would strive to put up a formidable total on the scoreboard. South Africa's unexpected semi-run faces a major threat from old demons versus Australia. The Proteas never won or reached the World Cup final despite often being in the top teams. But Australia's clinical attack had them reeling before rain intervened. If rain stops play and the reserve day is also washed off, South Africa qualify for the final as South Africa finished second on the points table while Australia finished third.

In a gripping World Cup semi-final against New Zealand, Shubman Gill, recovering from dengue, battled cramps and a pulled hamstring during his innings of 79. The after-effects of the mosquito-borne illness affected his muscle mass, leading to an unexpected struggle in humid conditions. Despite the setback, Gill's contribution aided India's formidable total of 397 for 4, featuring centuries from Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer. Kohli's historic 50th ODI century stole the spotlight, with Gill praising the captain's consistent hunger for success as the ultimate inspiration. In a post-match press conference, Gill confirmed his fitness for the World Cup final on November 19 in Ahmedabad, stating, "It started with cramps and then I pulled my hamstring a little bit. It was quite humid and just the after-effects of dengue." He further elaborated on the impact of dengue, mentioning a reduction in muscle mass but expressing satisfaction with India's overall performance.      

Prime Minister Narendra Modi applauded Team India for their outstanding victory in the World Cup semi-final against New Zealand. Specifically praising Mohammad Shami's exceptional performance, Modi highlighted the bowler's historic achievement. Shami, with a remarkable seven-wicket haul, not only played a pivotal role in turning the match but also broke a 20-year-old record for the best bowling figures by an Indian bowler in World Cups. Home Minister Amit Shah and Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge also extended congratulations, highlighting Virat Kohli's record-breaking century. India's formidable 398-run target secured their 10th consecutive World Cup win, setting the stage for an electrifying final at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

In a post-match reflection, New Zealand captain Kane Williamson lauded India as the undisputed best cricket team globally, despite his side's loss in a gripping World Cup semi-final in Mumbai. Acknowledging India's exceptional form with ten consecutive victories, Williamson praised Virat Kohli's record-breaking 50th ODI century, labeling him the best and expressing concern for opposition teams. The Kiwi skipper also commended Daryl Mitchell's remarkable innings, describing him as the "ultimate competitor." The match was marked by controversy over the Wankhede pitch, but Williamson and India's opener Shubman Gill remained nonplussed about its impact.

The India-NZ World Cup semi was mired in controversy as reports said hosts India changed the Wankhede pitch to help spinners, playing on a 'used surface' instead of a new one prepared for the match. Amid criticism over the pitch, Sunil Gavaskar blasted "morons talking about the change", asserting "The pitch was set before the toss." Gavaskar fumed "If you are a good team, you play on that pitch and win." The ICC said changes to planned rotations are "common" in long events, and was recommended by the curator here. The ICC stated its consultant was aware of the change, adding: "No reason to believe the pitch won't play well." As per the rules, hosts need not use fresh pitches in knockouts. An angry Gavaskar concluded: "Already they are talking about Ahmedabad and the second semifinal hasn't even taken place. They are talking about the pitch being changed in Ahmedabad. Nonsense!"

After India's semi-final victory, Leaders across parties congratulated India for the "electrifying display" and a stellar performance by Shami and the batsmen in the semi-finals. PM Modi tweeted "Congratulations to Team India! Fantastic batting and good bowling sealed the match." He praised Shami saying "The bowling by @MdShami11 in this game and also through the World Cup will be cherished for generations." Home Minister Amit Shah wrote "Enter into the final like a Boss. What an electrifying display." Rahul Gandhi said "Outstanding display of teamwork and skill." Nitin Gadkari called it a "cricketing spectacle" and wished "Luck be with you, Team India – Smash it!" Azharuddin said "Every Indian batsman played well. I hope India wins the World Cup." The finals at Ahmedabad on the 19th of November