Just before the highly anticipated Cricket World Cup 2023 semi-final clash between India and New Zealand, a storm of controversy swept through the cricketing realm, accusing the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) of a last-minute pitch alteration. Speculation suggested that India might have tweaked the pitch to tip the scales in their favor. When questioned about this in the post-match press conference, New Zealand captain Kane Williamson downplayed the entire discourse.

During the presser, Williamson acknowledged the use of a previously played wicket but emphasized its quality, expressing no objections from the New Zealand side.

“Well, yes, it was a used wicket, but honestly, it provided a good surface, as we witnessed. They gained a lot from it in the first half of the match. Conditions tend to shift, especially under lights, as we’ve observed throughout this competition. It’s part of the game and they played exceptionally well. It’s disappointing not to progress further at this stage, but at the same time, you reflect on the seven weeks rather than a couple of isolated moments, and we lost to a superior side,” he responded to a reporter’s inquiry.

Furthermore, Williamson praised India as ‘the best team in the world,’ expressing confidence in their performance heading into the final.

“They’re the best team in the world and they’re all at the top of their game, so it’s tough. In cricket, failure often surrounds the narrative, and it’s about how you cope with it. Their incredible performances throughout this tournament have been consistent. They haven’t missed a beat, and entering a semi-final, you go through your round-robin, and it starts anew. The way they approached and played in this match demonstrates the mindset and form they’re in. I have no doubt they’ll enter the next match brimming with confidence,” stated the Kiwi skipper.