Ever since New Zealand confirmed its place in the semi-finals, the question which I have been asked the most number of times is “As an Indian living in New Zealand, where exactly do your loyalties lie?” I have three answers ready at the tip of my tongue. 1) Blood is thicker than any passport or permanent residency in the world 2) If India win, I will have a happy life and if New Zealand win, I will have a happy wife. 3) Whoever wins I will be happy but whoever loses I will be sad.

New Zealand have reached the semi-finals in stark contrast to their opponents. Four wins followed by four losses and then a dominating performance against Sri Lanka to shut the door firmly on Pakistan. A campaign that began in style was plagued by injuries but recovered just in time to make it to the semi-finals yet again.