India into World Cup final after Kohli century and Shami see off New Zealand

Virat Kohli set a new benchmark as he recorded his 50th one-day international century to overtake fellow India great Sachin Tendulkar as New Zealand were defeated, despite a sensational 134 from Daryl Mitchell.

Kohli equalled the record earlier this month and is now out in front as Tendulkar watched his former teammate compile a superlative 117 off 113 balls to underpin India’s 397 for four in Mumbai. Shreyas Iyer joined Kohli in reaching three figures, scoring 105 from 70 balls.

But despite the hosts’ mammoth total, New Zealand made a terrific effort of their run chase, Mitchell bludgeoning 134 from 119 balls. His captain, Kane Williamson, supported him for a lengthy stint at the crease, scoring 69 off 73 balls.

Mohammed Shami was a constant thorn in New Zealand’s side, however, eventually finishing with seven wickets. First he removed openers Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra for 13 runs each. Then Shami broke the Mitchell and Williamson partnership when he had the latter out, caught by Suryakumar Yadav, before bowling Tom Latham lbw for a duck.

New Zealand built again through Glenn Phillips but when Jasprit Bumrah took his wicket, the chasing side were on 295 for five with seven overs left. India coolly closed out the game from there – Shami removing Mitchell to claim his fifth wicket – and will face either Australia or South Africa in the final. Shami was named player of the match for his remarkable haul of seven for 57 in 9.5 overs.

Barney Ronay’s report to follow