Captain Kane Williamson’s praise for Martin Guptill as fielder was plentiful, after New Zealand beat India by 18 runs in Wednesday’s World Cup semi-final at Old Trafford in Manchester.

Guptill orchestrated a direct hit from the on-side to run out veteran MS Dhoni, who had shared a century partnership with all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja.

The wicket effectively turned the contest in the Black Caps’ favour – and eventually ensured them a berth in Sunday’s final at Lord’s in London.

‘He’s probably the only man on the pitch that could perhaps create that run-out,’ said Williamson.

‘Contributions can come in so many different ways. For him to pull off what was a significant turning point in the match was special.’

New Zealand will meet England or Australia in the final. They lost to the English and Aussies during the round-robin stage of the tournament.

‘Every game throughout the round robin was worth a couple of points so they were all important,’ added Williamson.

‘Obviously a semi-final is worth a few more than two points. But, you know, we’ll go into another match and try to implement similar things that are important to our side, that gives us the best chance of success.

‘But we turn up on the day and anybody can beat anybody. It’s important that feet are on the ground and we look forward to that challenge.’

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