India vs New Zealand, Champions Trophy 2025 Highlights
Varun Chakravarthy made a stunning comeback in international cricket in UAE. Last time, he had a tough time playing here, but this time, he was the star of the match. Playing his first game in this Champions Trophy, Varun took 5 wickets for 42 runs, leading India’s spinners in dominating New Zealand’s batting lineup. With this 44-run win, India has now entered the semi-finals, where they will face Australia on Tuesday.
Indian Spinners Shine
Axar Patel started building pressure on New Zealand’s batters, making it difficult for them to score freely. Although he was wicketless for most of his spell, he took a crucial wicket on his last ball – Kane Williamson. Williamson, the former New Zealand captain, fought hard and played a solid innings of 81 runs from 120 balls, keeping New Zealand’s hopes alive. But once he got out, New Zealand had no chance of making a comeback.
After the first 10 overs, New Zealand struggled against India’s spin attack. Williamson was the only batter who stood strong, reaching his fifty in 77 balls. Varun Chakravarthy dismissed in-form Will Young in the 12th over, while Hardik Pandya gave India an early breakthrough as they defended their total of 250 runs in this must-win game in Dubai.
Shreyas Iyer and Hardik Pandya Boost India’s Score
India managed to score 249 for 9 in 50 overs despite New Zealand’s disciplined bowling. The Kiwi bowlers kept things tight, not allowing India to score quickly. Matt Henry took 5 wickets for 42 runs, while Kyle Jamieson gave away only 31 runs in 8 overs. Their spinners also made sure India couldn’t accelerate in the middle overs.
Shreyas Iyer played a solid knock of 79 runs from 98 balls, while Hardik Pandya added a quick 45 runs in 45 balls. Iyer was looking set for a big partnership with Axar Patel, but Rachin Ravindra broke the stand just before they reached a 100-run partnership. India struggled early but slowly found their rhythm as Iyer and Axar steadied the innings.
Earlier, India faced big trouble at the start, losing Shubman Gill, Rohit Sharma, and Virat Kohli for just 30 runs. Rohit started well but got out early. Gill fell cheaply to Matt Henry in the 3rd over, and Kohli, playing his 300th ODI, was dismissed in style by Glenn Phillips, who took a one-handed catch in just 0.62 seconds.
Toss and Team Changes
New Zealand won the toss and chose to bowl first, but Rohit Sharma said that India wanted to bat first anyway. India made one change, bringing in Varun Chakravarthy for Hasrhit Rana. New Zealand included Daryl Mitchell, replacing Devon Conway.
With this victory, India now moves to the semi-final against Australia. Can they continue this winning form? Stay tuned for more updates.
