Dubai witnessed an intense battle as India secured a 44-run victory over New Zealand, successfully defending a target of 250. Despite a spirited effort from New Zealand captain Kane Williamson, the Indian bowling attack proved too strong, wrapping up the opposition for 205 in 45.3 overs.
Williamson Fights Lone Battle for New Zealand
Kane Williamson stood out for the Kiwis, scoring a resilient 81 off 120 deliveries. However, he received little support from the rest of the lineup, with Will Young (22), Daryl Mitchell (17), Tom Latham (14), Glenn Phillips (12), and Rachin Ravindra (6) failing to build partnerships.
#ChampionsTrophy2025 #INDvNZ #ShreyasIyer #INDvsNZ
India in semis!!!!
Varun (5/42) stars as India (249/9) beat NZ (205) by 44 runs to set up semi-final with Australia
HIGHLIGHTS: https://t.co/VEUjUP9eEX pic.twitter.com/4Bq9nJJmQN
— TOI Sports (@toisports) March 2, 2025
Varun Chakravarthy Stars with Five-Wicket Haul
India’s bowling attack was spearheaded by Varun Chakravarthy, who claimed a stunning five-wicket haul, dismantling the New Zealand batting order. Kuldeep Yadav took two wickets, while Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, and Ravindra Jadeja picked up one each, ensuring India maintained control throughout the innings.
India Recovers to Post 249 After Early Collapse
Opting to bat first, India found itself in early trouble at 30/3 but managed to post 249/9 in 50 overs. Shreyas Iyer played a pivotal role, top-scoring with 79 off 98 balls, including four boundaries and two sixes. Axar Patel provided valuable support with a 42-run knock off 61 balls.
Hardik Pandya Delivers Late Surge
Hardik Pandya’s aggressive 45 off 45 deliveries, featuring four fours and two sixes, bolstered India’s total in the death overs. KL Rahul (23) and Ravindra Jadeja (16) also contributed, while Rohit Sharma (15), Shubman Gill (2), and Virat Kohli (11) failed to convert their starts.
New Zealand’s chase faltered against India’s disciplined bowling attack, ultimately falling short by 44 runs. The result adds momentum to India’s campaign, while New Zealand will look to regroup ahead of their next encounter.