World Cup 2019: India's strongest playing XI for the Semi-Final 

# Middle Order- Virat Kohli (c), Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya

Virat Kohli has been in great form in this World Cup, making an impact with his bat as well as his captaincy. Kohli became the first captain to score five consecutive fifties in the World Cup. He has been the fulcrum around which the middle order has functioned in the middle overs. Kohli has been solid at one end, regularly rotating the strike, giving opportunities to the likes of Rishabh Pant and Hardik Pandya, and changing gears when required. Kohli, along with his deputy, would be the batting mainstay for India against the three-pronged pace attack of New Zealand.

Rishabh Pant brings in versatility to the Indian batting line up, on account of being a southpaw and his repertoire of aggressive shots. Although he has got limited opportunities so far, the dashing left-hander holds the ability to swing the fortunes of the game in just a few overs. He would be expected to keep the score board ticking at a good rate, without taking too many risks.

Hardik Pandya has been one of the greatest success stories of Indian cricket in the recent past. He has transformed into a dynamic, multi-dimensional character who can just about do anything to further the team's cause. Pandya has been regularly promoted up the order when the team is in a strong position, and he has responded quite well, helping India tighten their grip on the match. His ability to bowl well in the middle overs, accompanied with his pinch-hitting and athleticism makes him the X-Factor for Team India in the big semi-final.