The Indian cricket team showcased their spinning prowess to restrict New Zealand to a total of 251 runs in the final match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
With a target of 252 runs to chase, India is on the brink of another ICC title.
New Zealand, after winning the toss, opted to bat first. The opening partnership of Rachin Ravindra and Will Young was short-lived, with Young departing early after scoring just 15 runs. Ravindra managed a quick 37 runs off 29 deliveries before being dismissed.
The pressure was on New Zealand’s middle order as Kane Williamson and Daryl Mitchell took the crease. However, India struck again, dismissing Williamson for a mere 11 runs. Mitchell, on the other hand, put up a resilient performance, scoring 63 runs off 101 deliveries. Michael Bracewell’s late innings contribution of an unbeaten 53 runs off 40 deliveries provided some stability to New Zealand’s total.
India’s spinners were the stars of the show. Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakaravarthy each claimed two crucial wickets, while Mohammed Shami and Ravindra Jadeja chipped in with one wicket apiece. The disciplined bowling performance restricted New Zealand to a modest total in this high-stakes final.
With 252 runs needed for victory, all eyes are now on the Indian batting lineup as they look to secure the Champions Trophy 2025. The Indian team, unbeaten throughout the tournament, will need to maintain their winning streak to lift the prestigious trophy.
