'Everyone wants a piece of host nation': Trent Boult opens up on potential IND vs NZ semi-final

On Thursday, New Zealand seemingly ended the suspense regarding who will take on India in the semi-final of the ICC ODI World Cup 2023. Along with the Blackcaps, there are Pakistan and Afghanistan in the race too, but following the 5-wicket win over Sri Lanka in Bangalore, it is pretty much certain that it will be India vs New Zealand in the crucial clash. If it becomes official, it will be a repeat of the 2019 World Cup Semi-Final; where India suffered a heartbreaking loss.

3 things you need to know

• Team India remains the only undefeated team in the ICC ODI World Cup 2023
• New Zealand have defeated Sri Lanka by 5 wickets to almost cement their spot in the semi-final
• India will potentially face New Zealand in the semi-final of the tournament

Also Read | CWC 2023: Did NZ take 'Review of the tournament?'

Trent Boult on facing Team India

Team India's dominance on home soil has ushered the squad as complete favourites to lift the eminent golden trophy. However, to get one step closer, it seems Team India will have to face their biggest hurdle. New Zealand have been a team that has caused problems for the Men in Blue in every format of the game and this time again the Kiwis are right there on the scene at the most crucial stage in the journey of India. Thus, to get to the final, India will have to get rid of their bogey team.

Ahead of the clash, New Zealand's left-arm seamer Trent Boult expressed eagerness to face India and hinted that the Rohit Sharma-led side is a team to beat. 

"Yeah. Everyone wants a piece of the host nation. They are playing good cricket and it will be an interesting battle."

Also Read | France Cricket organise fake games to receive fund

India vs New Zealand: Preview 

While Team India has been going bonkers in the tournament and will finish 1st in the points table. However, that would not provide any impetus as following that it all becomes a game of holding the nerves. With the way, India has been going they could get the favourites tag but considering the recent history and of course the principle of the game, nothing could be gauged and it is set to be a competitive battle with both teams coming in 50-50 chance irrespective of what happened in the league stage.