India vs New Zealand, Semi-final 1: Predicted fantasy XI team and budget player

The cricketing world is bracing itself for an epic showdown as India and New Zealand lock horns in the semi-final of the ODI World Cup 2023, scheduled for November 15th. This high-stakes clash promises to be a contest of titanic proportions between two cricketing powerhouses vying for a spot in the tournament’s pinnacle. India, led by the charismatic Rohit Sharma, has exhibited dominance throughout the tournament. With a star-studded lineup featuring Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj, the team’s blend of experience and youthful exuberance has been a force to reckon with. India’s consistent performances and adaptability in pressure situations make them formidable opponents. Cricket enthusiasts can anticipate a fiercely contested battle marked by skill, strategy, and unwavering competitive spirit.

New Zealand, known for their tenacity and adaptability, brings a balanced side under the leadership of the astute Kane Williamson. With talents like Rachin Ravindra, Trent Boult and Mitchell Santner, the ‘Blackcaps’ possess a well-rounded squad capable of handling various match scenarios. Their ability to punch above their weight in crucial encounters makes them a team to watch out for. The semi-final stage elevates the significance of this match, where the stakes are high, and the pressure is intense. The clash between India and New Zealand, two teams with a history of intense contests, promises to deliver a spectacle that celebrates the pinnacle of cricket. Mark your calendars; this is one match that embodies the essence of the sport and the thrill of high-stakes competition.

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Pitch report of India vs New Zealand, Semi-final 1

The pitch at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai is a balanced track and is likely to stay intact throughout the match. The average score in the first innings in the last 10 matches at this stadium is 318. Fielding first is recommended at the venue, with the team batting second winning 60 per cent of its matches.

Predicted Fantasy XI team and budget player

Team 1

Captain: Virat Kohli – Kohli is known for his remarkable consistency in scoring runs across all formats of the game. He has a phenomenal average and a habit of converting starts into substantial scores, which translates to valuable fantasy points. Kohli is among the best batsmen in the world, capable of playing long innings, scoring boundaries, rotating the strike, and controlling the game’s pace, all of which contribute significantly to fantasy points.

Vice Captain: Rachin Ravindra – Ravindra is a talented all-rounder who can contribute with both bat and ball. He is known for his solid batting technique and ability to build innings. As a left-arm spinner, Ravindra has the ability to pick up wickets. In fantasy cricket, all-rounders have an advantage as they can accumulate points through multiple aspects like scoring runs, taking wickets, and contributing in the field.

Budget player: Mitchell Santner – Spinners often play a crucial role in picking up wickets, especially in certain conditions. Santner’s left-arm spin can be effective on pitches that assist spinners, giving you potential points for wickets taken. His ability to bat down the order can provide you with valuable points, especially in formats like ODIs

Team 2

Captain: Rohit Sharma – Rohit Sharma is renowned for his exceptional batting skills, especially in limited-overs cricket. He has the ability to convert good starts into substantial innings, providing a high point return for fantasy managers. Even if he doesn’t score a century, his contributions with 50s or quickfire innings can fetch valuable points. Rohit’s leadership role can add another dimension to his fantasy points. His involvement in strategic decisions, along with his batting prowess, can contribute to higher point accumulation.

Vice Captain: Shubman Gill – Gill is a highly talented young batsman known for his elegant stroke play and solid batting technique. He has shown ability to anchor an innings and score runs consistently across all formats. Being a top-order batsman, Gill has more opportunities to face more deliveries and build his innings, which can lead to accumulating fantasy points for boundaries, runs scored, and partnerships.

Budget player: Glenn Phillips – Phillips is known for his aggressive and powerful batting. He can score runs quickly, which translates to fantasy points, especially in formats that reward boundary-hitting and quick runs. Apart from his batting, Phillips can chip in with some handy overs of spin if needed. In fantasy cricket formats that reward points for bowling contributions as well, this adds to his overall value.