India Triumphs Over New Zealand to Set Up Australia Semi-Final
India has once again shown why they are a powerhouse in world cricket, securing a crucial 44-run victory over New Zealand in the final group-stage match of the Champions Trophy 2025. This win not only cements their dominance but also sets up a high-stakes semi-final clash against Australia.
Batting first in Dubai, India faced early trouble as they stumbled to 30-3, with key players like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Shubman Gill departing cheaply. Kohli's dismissal, in particular, was a moment of brilliance, as Glenn Phillips pulled off a stunning one-handed catch at point. But the Indian middle order, led by Shreyas Iyer (79 off 98) and Axar Patel, steadied the innings. Their composed partnership of 98 runs allowed Hardik Pandya to play a more aggressive role towards the end, adding a valuable 45 runs off just 45 balls. Despite Matt Henry’s sensational 5-wicket haul (5-42), India managed to post a competitive total of 249-9.
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Chasing 250 on a slow Dubai pitch was never going to be easy, and New Zealand found themselves in a battle against India's well-balanced bowling attack. Kane Williamson anchored the innings with a resilient 81 off 120 balls, but he lacked solid partnerships. At 133-3, the game was still wide open, but the introduction of India's spin attack changed the course of the match. Varun Chakravarthy was the star, dismantling New Zealand’s batting lineup with figures of 5-42. Once Tom Latham was trapped LBW by Ravindra Jadeja, the floodgates opened, and New Zealand lost their last seven wickets for just 72 runs, getting bowled out for 205 in 45.3 overs.
India’s spinners were exceptional, controlling the game with accuracy and variation. Rohit Sharma, elated with the win, called it a "perfect game of cricket" and emphasized the importance of maintaining momentum in a short tournament. On the other side, New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner admitted that the pitch offered more turn than expected and credited India’s spinners for their brilliance.
This victory keeps India unbeaten in the tournament and sets up a mouth-watering semi-final against Australia, a team with a rich history in knockout games. New Zealand, despite the loss, will have another chance as they face South Africa in Lahore.
With the semi-finals now set, cricket fans can expect intense battles ahead. India’s spin attack looks to be their strongest weapon, but against Australia, they’ll need a complete performance to book a spot in the final. The countdown to an epic showdown has begun!
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