India, for the first time ever, have made it to the World Cup semi-finals undefeated. On the face of it, it is a feat very much expected off one of the strongest ODI teams in the world who also happen to be the defending champions.
Where to watch World Cup semifinal online live streaming
The Australia vs India semifinal is scheduled for a 05:30 GMT (09:00 IST) start, with live streaming option HERE for India viewers. Star Sports network will telecast the match in India. Live score updates are available HERE and HERE. In Australia, FOX Sports will telecast the match live, with live streaming option HERE. Viewers can also watch the action live online HERE. Sky Sports will broadcast the game in the United Kingdom with live streaming option HERE.
“Our approach won’t change from what it was before,” Rohit Sharma said. “We just have to stay in the present and look forward to the semi-final. We have played in big matches so we know what it takes to come out as a winner. Hopefully we will have a good start tomorrow. Whether we bat or bowl first, we have to start the game very well.”
“As the game progresses, you’ll see where you stand at that point in time and then think about it and analyze. The biggest thing for us is to stay in the present with the crowd and just enjoy the moment and focus on what we do. I’m sure we will all be prepared, geared up and ready to go.”
“We know how important it is to have that opening partnership. It sets up the game for the others to come and bat. Our batsmen are batting well and we know what they are capable of. We have to stick to our strengths without thinking of what is happening at the other end. It will be important for the top three to click for the batsmen to follow.”
High of form, high on confidence and at home – Australia have everything going their way. A major reason for their march in this World Cup has been their fast bowling led by the two Mitchells. And that is their obvious strength going into the semi-final against India.
“The way the boys played against Pakistan in the quarter-finals was extremely pleasing. Being the No.1 ODI team in the world does bring a lot of expectations. The reason you have that expectation on you is because you’ve performed.”
“There is a lot of talk about pressure and expectation, but that’s what comes with the role of playing cricket at the highest level. There is no greater expectation than what you put on yourself. You want to perform at the highest level. You want to perform against the best. I think the boys will be fine.”
“The fact that we are playing India now is extremely special. Through my career they have always been extremely hard to beat whether you play in India or in Australia. We’ve got to walk out on that field and give our best and the result will take care of itself.
Squads: India: MS Dhoni (c), Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, Ajinkya Rahane, Suresh Raina, Ambati Rayudu, Stuart Binny, Axar Patel, R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Umesh Yadav, Mohammad Shami, Mohit Sharma.
Australia: Michael Clarke (c), George Bailey, Pat Cummins, Xavier Doherty, James Faulkner, Aaron Finch, Brad Haddin (wk), Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Johnson, Mitchell Marsh, Steve Smith, Glenn Maxwell, Mitchell Starc, David Warner, Shane Watson.
