India vs. New Zealand Semis: Gavaskar's Fury over Pitch Conspiracy Theories

Following an intense World Cup semifinal between India and New Zealand, Gavaskar vehemently dismissed pitch conspiracy claims. Despite the uproar, India triumphed with a massive score of 397 runs, silencing critics amidst heated controversies surrounding the pitch alteration allegations.

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Following an intense World Cup semifinal between India and New Zealand, Gavaskar vehemently dismissed pitch conspiracy claims. Despite the uproar, India triumphed with a massive score of 397 runs, silencing critics amidst heated controversies surrounding the pitch alteration allegations.

In the riveting ICC Men's Cricket World Cup semifinal clash between India and New Zealand, Mumbai witnessed an epic showdown on November 15, amassing a total of 724 runs. The match showcased a breathtaking display of cricket prowess as Team India posted a staggering 397 runs, spearheaded by Virat Kohli's historic century and Shreyas Iyer's exceptional consecutive ton. New Zealand countered fiercely, scoring 327 runs, led by Daryl Mitchell's impressive century against the Men in Blue during the tournament.

Despite playing on a supposedly slow and used wicket, the pitch performed remarkably well, raising eyebrows over reports of a last-minute change from a fresh to a used surface. Allegations swirled, suggesting the home board deliberately altered the pitch, frustrating independent pitch consultant Andy Atkinson with numerous requests deviating from the pre-agreed plan throughout the tournament.

Post-match, Sunil Gavaskar, visibly irate, rebuked the pitch conspiracy claims, labeling them as baseless and nonsensical. His fiery response on Star Sports condemned the allegations, emphasizing India's exceptional performance and dismissing any foul play accusations.

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Gavaskar's post-match statement addressed the unfounded criticisms, challenging those propagating pitch change narratives. He urged to cease undermining Indian cricket, emphasizing that regardless of any alterations, both teams had equal conditions at the toss, urging critics to focus on the game's brilliance rather than baseless controversies.

Amidst the turmoil, the ICC clarified that pitch alterations are a norm, especially towards the tournament's crucial stages, asserting the curator's recommendation behind the change, with Atkinson's awareness of the decision. India defended their formidable 397-run total, securing victory by 70 runs, with Mohammed Shami clinching the best figures by an Indian bowler in ODIs, ultimately overshadowing the contentious pitch controversies.