India defeated New Zealand by 44 runs in the final group A league match of the Champions Trophy 2025, delivering a stellar performance. This victory propelled India to the top of the points table, securing a semi-final clash against Australia on March 4th.
Sports News: India showcased a dominant performance in the final group A league match of the Champions Trophy 2025, defeating New Zealand by 44 runs. This win secured India's top position in the points table, setting up a semi-final encounter with Australia on March 4th. The hero of India's victory was spinner Varun Chakravarthy, who dismantled the New Zealand batting lineup with a five-wicket haul.
Iyer, Axar, and Hardik's Heroics in the Indian Innings
After losing the toss and batting first at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, India's start was shaky. Within 6.4 overs, Shubman Gill, Rohit Sharma, and Virat Kohli were back in the pavilion with the score at 30. Shreyas Iyer (79) and Axar Patel (42) then steadied the ship, forging a crucial 98-run partnership for the fourth wicket. However, New Zealand's bowlers fought back in the middle overs, applying consistent pressure. Hardik Pandya (45) played a quickfire innings, but India managed only 249/9 in 50 overs. Matt Henry took 5 wickets for 42 runs for New Zealand.
Williamson's Struggle
Chasing 250, New Zealand also had a poor start, losing both openers for just 49 runs. Kane Williamson (81), however, offered resistance, forming important partnerships with Daryl Mitchell (26) and Tom Latham (24). But the Indian bowlers consistently took wickets, maintaining their dominance.
Varun Chakravarthy's Spin Magic
Varun Chakravarthy was the pick of the bowlers for India, taking 5 wickets for 42 runs in 10 overs, resulting in New Zealand's all-out for 205. Kuldeep Yadav also chipped in with 2 wickets. Mitchell Santner top-scored for New Zealand with 28 runs, but the team fell significantly short of the target. This victory secured India's top spot in Group A, setting up a semi-final clash with Australia on March 4th.
The match between India and Australia is expected to be a high-voltage encounter, where the challenge posed by India's spinners could prove difficult for the Kangaroos.
