India will face their long-standing rivals, New Zealand, in the fifth match of the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2023.

The game will take place in Dharamsala on Sunday, October 22. Team India has been exceptional in the World Cup thus far, with their performances leaving little room for criticism.

They have faced minimal challenges, with the exception of their game against Australia. The bowlers have performed exceptionally well, while the batters have seemed a bit rushed when chasing targets.

However, facing an in-form New Zealand team will present a completely different challenge.

New Zealand has performed excellently in bowling, fielding, and batting. They have shown great resilience and have not been affected by the absence of Kane Williamson.

However, can they replicate the same performance on a favourable pitch in Dharamsala against India? Which are the top two teams and the two favourites on a sporting wicket? It should be fantastic!

Raring to go in Dharamsala ⛰️💪#TeamIndia | #CWC2023 | #INDvNZ | #MenInBlue pic.twitter.com/gQKFNcksg4

— BCCI (@BCCI) October 21, 2023

Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, Dharamsala Pitch Report

The surface at the HPCA Stadium has performed admirably in the three matches thus far. Out of the three matches, only one has been a day/night game, while the first two matches were played exclusively during the day. 

The most noticeable distinction between the day games and the first day-night game was the significant increase in swing and assistance for the bowlers during the evening session. The par score appeared to be higher than expected.

Indeed, despite the relatively small size of the ground and the flat surfaces at the HPCA Stadium, it cannot be assumed that no score is safe.

In this tournament, a noticeable trend has emerged where teams batting first have a higher chance of winning if they manage to achieve a total exceeding 300. This trend may influence captains' decisions regarding whether to bowl or bat first.

In Dharamsala, teams that have batted first have won two out of three matches in the World Cup.

New Zealand has performed well in both batting first and chasing, while India has only chased targets in four games thus far.

If New Zealand chooses to bat, India will be in their comfort zone. However, the Kiwis will pose a significant challenge in both batting and bowling. On the other hand, if the Men in Blue bat first, they will aim to outplay the 2019 runners-up and secure victory.