India has shown their dominance throughout the tournament 

As the 2023 World Cup progresses, India has dominated the league stage, winning all nine matches to secure the top position. Pathan acknowledges the ruthlessness of the Indian team, excelling with both bat and ball, making them a formidable force in the competition.

The upcoming semi-final clash will see India facing New Zealand at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Wednesday, November 15. 

Meanwhile, South Africa and Australia will lock horns at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata in the second semi-final on Thursday, November 16.

Former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar echoed Pathan's sentiments, citing examples from other Olympic sports to argue against the introduction of playoffs in prestigious World Cup tournaments.

"I don't think so. This is the World Cup. Even in several international tournaments when medals are involved, there are a lot of sporting events where you don't get a second chance. Take the Olympics, for instance," Bangar added.

India, having won four out of their 14 encounters against New Zealand in ICC events, will seek to maintain their upper hand in the semi-final, drawing confidence from their earlier 4-wicket victory over the BlackCaps in Dharamsala during the World Cup.

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