India play New Zealand in the first semi-final tomorrow ©Getty Images

India captain Virat Kohli has claimed his team are relishing the pressure of becoming the favourites to win the Cricket World Cup as they prepare to take on New Zealand in the first semi-final at Old Trafford tomorrow.

Kohli's side finished top of the round robin stage with seven wins, one defeat and a washout against their semi-final opponents.

India, seeking a third Cricket World Cup title, overtook Australia on the final day of group action following their win over Sri Lanka.

They have emerged as the favourites to lift the trophy with bookmakers as a result of their superb performances in the opening phase of the tournament.

While India cruised to a spot in the last four, New Zealand rather stumbled their way to the semi-finals after losing their last three matches.

"Look, the Indian team always carry a lot of pressure whenever we play," said Kohli.

"We are used to that to be quite honest.

"We are better equipped to react in these situations because we know what these kind of games and our fan base and the expectations bring."

Australia spinner Nathan Lyon has claimed the Cricket World Cup is England's to lose ahead of their semi-final ©Getty Images
Australia spinner Nathan Lyon has claimed the Cricket World Cup is England's to lose ahead of their semi-final ©Getty Images

Hosts England were the pre-tournament favourites but endured a difficult round robin campaign before qualifying for the next round by beating both India and New Zealand.

Australia await for England at Edgbaston in the second semi-final on Thursday (July 11).

Australian off-spinner Nathan Lyon attempted to heap the pressure onto the home team by claiming his side are the underdogs.

"They should be going into this World Cup as favourites," he said. 

"It's all on them.

"It’s their World Cup to lose if you ask me. 

"We have got nothing to lose, only got stuff to gain."