ICC World Cup 2023, IND vs NZ semi-final: Gavaskar and Finch throw insights at Williamson's willingness to take risks and Bumrah's poetry

As the cricketing world eagerly gets ready for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 semi-final clash between India and New Zealand at Wankhede Stadium on Wednesday (November 15), legendary Sunil Gavaskar expressed confidence in the New Zealand captain Kane Williamson's comeback from injury.

Former India cricketer Gavaskar and former Australia cricketer Aaron Finch shared insights into the strategies and prowess of key players on Star Sports ahead of the epic encounter, which is a repeat of the semi-final contest held four years ago in England.

Gavaskar highlighted Williamson's exceptional skills, emphasising that his adept footwork and strategic approach transcend any concerns about a recent break. The 'Little Master' predicted Williamson's ability to navigate challenges, including facing the spinning prowess of Kuldeep Yadav, with finesse.

"It doesn't matter. He's such a great player; it doesn't matter if he's come out from a big break and he's scored runs. So, I don't think it's going to make much of a difference. He uses his feet really well to go down the pitch to smother the turn if needed; he then goes and uses the crease as well. So, he's a very good player," remarked Gavaskar.

He also noted a change in Williamson's approach, stating, "We've seen his willingness to take more risks. We haven't seen that side of Kane Williamson maybe in 2019, but here, we have seen him take the aerial route."

Former Aussie captain Finch delved into the artistry of India's pace spearhead, Jasprit Bumrah. The T20 World Cup-winning former Australia skipper emphasised Bumrah's unique ability to swing the ball back into the left-hander, making him a potent force against top-order batsmen like Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra.

Despite the seemingly unconventional approach, Finch likened Bumrah's bowling to poetry, applauding the seam position and precision that make it a captivating spectacle on the field.

"Yeah, of all the quick out there, and Bumrah in particular, his ability to swing it back into the left-hander is so crucial because then you can't just worry about the ball going across and you might get a little bit of width now and then.

"You've to be on guard for the ball that swings back, particularly for two left-handers, Conway and Rachin in the top order. Bumrah is beautiful to watch.

"It doesn't look like poetry when he's running up to the crease, but once he releases the ball, the seam position and angle to swing it back down the line against the left-hander is just poetry; it's unbelievable," commented Finch.

Finch also analysed the batting approach of Daryl Mitchell, emphasising the crucial need to dismiss him early. Acknowledging India's proficiency in securing powerplay wickets throughout the tournament, Finch stressed that getting Mitchell out early would be vital, preventing him from dictating terms later in the innings.

"Yeah, you've to get him early. That's what India has been good at throughout this tournament, getting powerplay wickets and exposing middle orders against the brand-new ball still. If Mitchell is able to bat till the 20th over, then he is able to play on his terms," explained Finch.

As the cricketing world braces for the ODI World Cup 2023 semi-final, fans can catch all the action live on the Star Sports Network and Disney+ Hotstar on November 15, 2023, from 12:00 pm onwards.