India emerged victorious in a thrilling World Cup clash against New Zealand, securing a crucial four-wicket win in a high-stakes match. The contest, a top-of-the-table battle, was marked by intense competition and standout performances on both sides. Mohammad Shami's sensational five-wicket haul and Virat Kohli's masterful innings were the highlights of India's triumph.

Batting first, New Zealand's innings began on shaky ground, losing opener Devon Conway early as he was caught by Shreyas Iyer. When Mohammad Shami entered the attack in the ninth over, he made an immediate impact, dismissing Will Young. However, a dropped catch by Ravindra Jadeja provided a lifeline for Daryl Mitchell and Rachin Ravindra. The duo forged a critical partnership, with Mitchell playing aggressively, hitting three massive sixes off Kuldeep Yadav. Their partnership steadied New Zealand's innings, taking the score past 200 in just 36.1 overs. Despite a few reprieves, Mitchell continued to dominate Indian bowlers.

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In India's run chase, openers Shubman Gill and captain Rohit Sharma provided a solid start, with Gill's elegant timing and Rohit's powerful strokes. However, they were both dismissed, and the onus was on Virat Kohli to guide the chase. Kohli anchored the innings, forming crucial partnerships with Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, and Ravindra Jadeja. His matured knock of 95 proved pivotal, leading India's pursuit of the target. However, two quick wickets added tension to India's chase, with Rahul and Suryakumar Yadav departing. Kohli, with his experience, bailed India out, partnering with Jadeja in a 78-run sixth-wicket stand.

With victory within reach, Kohli aimed for his 49th ODI century, equaling Sachin Tendulkar's record. Despite falling short and being caught in the deep, his innings was a lesson in successful chases.

While India's batting impressed, their fielding performance was uncharacteristically weak, with three dropped catches. Kuldeep Yadav, despite being expensive, took crucial wickets, including that of New Zealand's captain, Tom Latham.

This win marked India's first victory over New Zealand in an ICC event in 20 years who maintained their unbeaten run against the men-in-blue in that period.