Road to ODI World Cup Finals: India to take on New Zealand, South Africa clash with Australia in semi-finals - All you need to know

The semi-finalist of the ICC Men's ODI World Cup 2023 has been confirmed, despite one final group stage match remaining between India and the Netherlands. The top four teams heading to the semifinals include India, South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand. 

Having each played nine games, excluding the upcoming clash between IND and NED, it has been determined that New Zealand secures the fourth spot in the semifinals. 

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The Kiwis earned their place as Pakistan faced the daunting task of chasing 338 runs in just 6.4 overs, with their chances further diminished after losing the toss and being asked to field first. Let's delve into how these teams have performed so far, preview their semifinal clashes, and provide you with all the essential details.

India

Games: 8 | Wins: 8 | Losses: 0 | NRR: +2.456 | Points: 16

The sole unbeaten team in the tournament so far is the host nation, Team India. Topping the points table, they are set to encounter arch-nemesis New Zealand in the upcoming semi-final. 

The two teams previously clashed in Match 21 at Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, Dharamsala, on October 22, where the Men in Blue secured a victory by chasing down the 274-run total set by the Kiwis in 48 overs.

South Africa

Games: 9 | Wins: 7 | Losses: 2 | NRR: +1.261 | Points: 14

South Africa, securing the second position in the group stages, is now set to face Australia in the second semi-final, which finished in the third position. The two teams previously met in Match 10 at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow, on October 12. 

The Proteas dominated the clash, securing a significant 134-run victory after posting a total of 311 for 7 in 50 overs. The Aussies, in response, could only muster 177 in 40.5 overs before being all-out.

Australia

Games: 9 | Wins: 7 | Losses: 2 | NRR: +0.841 | Points: 14

Australia, securing the third position in the group stage, initially struggled with defeats against India and South Africa. However, they quickly gained momentum, securing victories in subsequent matches. 

Notably, they managed to win an almost-losing game against Afghanistan, propelled by Glenn Maxwell's remarkable 201* runs. 

In the semi-finals, they aim to turn the tables and seek revenge after the earlier 134-run defeat against South Africa.

New Zealand

Games: 9 | Wins: 5 | Losses: 4 | NRR: +0.743 | Points: 10

Following initial victories, the Kiwis experienced a dip in momentum towards the latter part of the tournament, facing defeats against Australia, South Africa, India, and Pakistan. 

However, they secured a win in their final league stage match against Sri Lanka, clinching it by 5 wickets. 

Renowned for causing disruptions in India's World Cup journey, the Kiwis aim to challenge the unbeaten team and quiet the host nation.

World Cup 2023: Road to Final:

Semi-final 1: India v New Zealand, Wednesday November 15, Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai

Semi-final 2: South Africa v Australia, Thursday November 16, Eden Gardens, Kolkata

Final: India / New Zealand v South Africa / Australia, Sunday November 19, Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad