New Zealand have set a stiff goal for Pakistan and Afghanistan within the race for the ultimate semi-final place on the Cricket World Cup.
After bowling Sri Lanka out for simply 172 in 46.4 overs, New Zealand made fast work of chasing down the goal.
New Zealand nearly within the semi-finals
The efforts of New Zealand have left Afghanistan and Pakistan needing to pull off improbably one-sided wins over South Africa and Bangladesh to knock the Black Caps out of fourth place.
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New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson mentioned that his workforce wouldn’t be too targeted on what’s going on elsewhere and can unwind over the weekend.
The Black Caps will face India within the semi-finals if neither Afghanistan nor Pakistan can unseat them.
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“Really good performance… early wickets and spin was challenging. The wicket slowed down and the guys played with intent in the second half,” Williamson mentioned.
“We thought there will probably be a little bit of climate however there was none. We knew Sri Lanka may be sturdy. Perera was sturdy on the high however the wickets we picked up went a good distance in proscribing them.
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“There was not a lot for the seamers however they stored it sturdy. Great to get our fifth and sixth spinners within the match. There’s a few groups that might find yourself on related factors. That’s not in our management. We will probably be having a couple of days off, unsure what’s taking place.
“These things don’t just happen. Especially the back end being so close. Playing semis is special but playing the home team will be challenging. Looking forward to it if we are fortunate enough to have it.”
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Young bloods
New Zealand have been powered by the nice type of Rachin Ravindra, who can’t fairly imagine that he’s performing within the Cricket World Cup cauldron.
He mentioned: “It’s a pretty surreal feeling. Grateful for the support, especially playing in Bangalore. Crowd chanting my name is something I will never take for granted. Dreamt of it as a child. Very happy to be here, lucky enough it worked out. Six to 12 months ago, I was not even in the frame. Good to get the job done and get into the playoffs.”
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