India sealed a commanding 44-run win over New Zealand in Dubai on Sunday. The victory, which sets up a high-stakes semi-final clash with Australia on Tuesday, finished the Champions Trophy group stage at the top of Group A with six points.
Meanwhile, New Zealand, which finished second in the group, will take on South Africa in Lahore on Wednesday.
India’s Gritty Comeback After Early Collapse
Winning the toss and electing to bowl, New Zealand’s decision initially paid dividends as India struggled early. The top order faltered, with Shubman Gill (2), Rohit Sharma (15), and Virat Kohli (11) departing quickly, leaving India reeling at 30/3.
A stabilising 98-run partnership between Shreyas Iyer (79) and Axar Patel (42) steadied the innings, but New Zealand struck back with key wickets. KL Rahul added 23 before departing, and despite late efforts from Hardik Pandya (45) and Ravindra Jadeja (16), India managed to post a competitive 249/9 in their 50 overs. Matt Henry was the standout performer for New Zealand, claiming an impressive 5/42.
India’s Spin Web Stifles New Zealand
Chasing 250, New Zealand faced immediate setbacks as Hardik Pandya dismissed Rachin Ravindra early, thanks to a stunning catch by Axar Patel. Kane Williamson (81) provided resistance, anchoring the innings while wickets fell at the other end.
Varun Chakravarthy (5/42) proved to be India’s match-winner, dismantling the middle order with a masterclass in spin bowling. Kuldeep Yadav chipped in with 2/56, while Axar Patel, Hardik Pandya, and Ravindra Jadeja claimed a wicket each. Despite a late effort from Mitchell Santner (28), New Zealand crumbled under pressure, getting bowled out for 205 in 46.3 overs.
Semi-Final Line-Up Confirmed
With the group stage now complete, the Champions Trophy semi-final fixtures have been confirmed:
- India vs Australia – Tuesday, Dubai
- South Africa vs New Zealand – Wednesday, Lahore
South Africa topped Group B with five points, after wins against Afghanistan and England and a washed-out game against Australia.
As the tournament heads into its final stages, India will be banking on its spinners to continue its dominance, while Australia will look to counter with its pace attack. With a spot in the final on the line, the cricketing world awaits a thrilling clash in Dubai.
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