India beat New Zealand by 44 runs, to face Australia in semifinal
India Secures Semifinal Showdown Against Australia After Dominant Display
In a high-stakes clash at the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, India triumphed over New Zealand by 44 runs, securing the top spot in Group A and setting up a blockbuster semifinal against Australia. The match, brimming with dramatic twists, saw India defend a modest total of 249/9, thanks to a disciplined bowling attack and New Zealand’s faltering chase.
India’s Resilient Batting Overcomes Early Collapse
Opting to bowl first after winning the toss, New Zealand’s skipper Mitchell Santner saw his decision pay early dividends. Matt Henry (5/45) ripped through India’s top order, dismissing Shubman Gill (lbw) and triggering a collapse that left India reeling at 30/3. A stunning catch by Glenn Phillips sent Virat Kohli packing, amplifying the pressure.
However, India staged a remarkable recovery through Shreyas Iyer (79 off 112 balls) and Axar Patel, who forged a 98-run partnership. Iyer’s gritty knock, the highest of the innings, anchored India’s innings before he fell to a sharp catch by Kane Williamson off Will O’Rourke. Contributions from Hardik Pandya (27 off 27) and KL Rahul (23) propelled India to a competitive 249/9, despite Henry’s fiery five-wicket haul and Williamson’s acrobatic catches.
New Zealand’s Chase Stumbles Despite Williamson’s Grit
Chasing 250, New Zealand’s hopes hinged on skipper Kane Williamson (81 off 120), who battled valiantly. However, India’s bowlers struck at regular intervals, reducing the Kiwis to 169/7 after 41 overs. With 81 needed off 54 balls, Williamson’s dismissal by Jasprit Bumrah marked the turning point, triggering a late collapse. Spinners Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel stifled the middle order, while Mohammed Shami’s death-over precision sealed the win.
Varun Chakaravarthy | Player of the Match: First of all I did feel nervous in the initial stages. I have not played many matches for India in the ODI format but as the game went on I felt better. Virat, Rohit, Shreyas and Hardik were talking to me and that helped. (on when he knew he was playing this game) I found out last night. I was definitely expecting to play for the country but on the other side I was nervous. It was not a rank turner, but if you bowled in the right places it was giving help. The way Kuldeep, Jaddu and Axar bowled, even the pace bowlers, it was a total team effort.
Key Moments and Tournament Implications
- Matt Henry’s Masterclass: His five-wicket haul, including the scalps of Kohli and Pandya, highlighted New Zealand’s bowling dominance early on.
- Fielding Brilliance: Kane Williamson’s jaw-dropping catches kept India in check during the first innings.
- India’s Bowling Depth: Varun Chakaravarthy Five Wicket Haul, Hardik Pandya, and spinners combined to dismantle New Zealand’s chase, despite Williamson’s resistance.
The victory ensures India face Australia in the semifinals, while New Zealand bow out after a campaign that included wins over Pakistan and Bangladesh.
Road to the Semifinals
India’s unbeaten run in the group stage, including dominant wins over Pakistan and Bangladesh, cements their status as tournament favorites.
1st Semi Finale- Australia vs India
2nd Semi Finale- South Africa vs New Zealand
What’s Next?
Cricket fans can brace for a fiery India vs. Australia semifinal, a rivalry steeped in ICC event history. With both teams in scintillating form, the clash promises high-octane action as they vie for a spot in the Champions Trophy final.
Stay tuned for more updates on the ICC Champions Trophy 2025!