India tops group in Champions Trophy
Chasing a target of 250 runs in Dubai, New Zealand was bowled out for 205 in 45.3 overs.
KATHMANDU: India secured the top spot in their Champions Trophy group after defeating New Zealand by 44 runs.
With this win, India will face Australia in the semifinals, while New Zealand will take on South Africa.
New Zealand Falls Short in Run Chase
Chasing a target of 250 runs in Dubai, New Zealand was bowled out for 205 in 45.3 overs. Opener Rachin Ravindra fell early for just 6 runs, while Will Young managed 22. Skipper Kane Williamson held the innings together, scoring 81 off 77 balls, but lacked support from other batters.
Daryl Mitchell (17), Tom Latham (14), Glenn Phillips (12), and Michael Bracewell (2) failed to make an impact. At 159/6, New Zealand was in trouble, and despite Mitchell Santner’s 28-run effort, they could not recover.
Varun Chakravarthy’s Five-Wicket Haul Shines
Varun Chakravarthy was the star with the ball, claiming 5 wickets for 42 runs in 10 overs. Kuldeep Yadav also contributed with 2 wickets, ensuring India’s dominant victory.
India Recovers After Early Collapse
Earlier, India posted 249/9 in 50 overs after being sent in to bat. The team had a poor start, losing three quick wickets for just 30 runs. Shubman Gill (2), Rohit Sharma (15), and Virat Kohli (11) were dismissed early.
However, Shreyas Iyer (79) and Axar Patel (42) built a crucial 98-run partnership for the fourth wicket. Hardik Pandya added 45 runs, while KL Rahul contributed 23.
For New Zealand, Matt Henry was exceptional, taking 5 wickets for 42 runs in 8 overs, but his efforts could not prevent India’s win.
India Finishes Group Stage Unbeaten
With this victory, India finished the group stage with 6 points, while New Zealand secured 4 points. Both teams had already qualified for the semifinals before this match.
Earlier, India defeated Pakistan and Bangladesh by six wickets each, while New Zealand registered wins over Pakistan (by 60 runs) and Bangladesh (by five wickets). Bangladesh and Pakistan were eliminated from the group.
In the other group, Australia and South Africa progressed to the semifinals, while England and Afghanistan were knocked out.
