3 Moments that Defined the India vs New Zealand ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Match
Fight for the Top Spot: A Review of the Match
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 match between India and New Zealand was a thrilling contest that showcased the skills of both teams. As we reflect on the game, three moments stood out, making all the difference in the outcome.
Brilliant Opening Spell and Catching Help NZ Dominate
India’s top order, comprising Shubman Gill, Rohit Sharma, and Virat Kohli, were sent packing early by the New Zealand bowlers. Kohli’s dismissal saw India reduced to 30/3, with Matt Henry leading the show. The seamer’s clever use of length and pace got the better of Gill, trapping him LBW, while Kyle Jamieson’s back-of-a-length ball got Rohit out for 15. [1] Glenn Phillips pulled off a stunning catch to dismiss Kohli, leaving India in a precarious position.
This early wicket haul gave New Zealand a favorable start, which they capitalized on throughout the game.
A Sedate 98-Run Stand Becomes a Turning Point
Axar Patel and Shreyas Iyer’s 98-run partnership proved a vital bone for India, as the pair weathered the initial storm, slowing down New Zealand’s attack. The economy went as high as 51 balls without a boundary, with Axar eventually perking up with a timely four off Michael Bracewell. Iyer’s testatory knocks kept India’s score in check, allowing the lower-order batters to have a platform to build upon.
This partnership not only restored India’s momentum but also prevented New Zealand from gaining total control of the game.
India’s Spin Show Led by Varun Ends Kiwi Resistance
The Indian spinners, Varun Chakravarthy, Axar Patel, and Ravindra Jadeja, played a crucial role in choking New Zealand’s chase. Varun, in particular, stole the show with figures of 5/42, becoming the third Indian bowler to take a five-wicket haul in the Champions Trophy. His variations and wily accuracy bamboozled the New Zealand batsmen, who struggled to cope with the spinners’ ingenuity.
India’s spinners conjured 125 dot balls, using their guile to trap the Kiwis in front of the stumps, accounting for four middle-order wickets. [2] Williamson’s gutsy 81 couldn’t save the day, as India’s superior spin show wrapped up the match.
In conclusion, these three moments – the impressive bowling and catching, the sedate 98-run stand, and India’s spin show – defined the outcome of the India vs New Zealand ICC Champions Trophy 2025 match, ultimately handing India a 44-run victory and a top spot in the standings.
References:
[1] https://www ESPN.com/cricinfo/matches/62006
[2] https://www ESPN.com/cricinfo/matches/62006
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