Following New Zealand’s 44-run loss to India in their final ICC Champions Trophy 2025 group-stage match, Kiwi skipper Mitchell Santner admitted that India’s spinners dominated the middle overs on a slower Dubai pitch compared to what his team had experienced earlier in the Pakistan leg of the tournament.
Despite Kane Williamson’s valiant 81 off 120 balls, New Zealand was choked by India’s spin trio of Varun Chakravarthy, Axar Patel, and Ravindra Jadeja. The win confirmed India’s top spot in Group A with three consecutive victories.
Santner Praises India’s Spinners, Prepares for South Africa Clash
Speaking at the post-match presentation, Santner acknowledged India’s control in the middle phase and praised Shreyas Iyer’s composed 79-run knock.
“It was a slower wicket than what we have come against. We knew that going in. India controlled the middle phase better,” Santner said.
He also noted that early wickets in the powerplay were a positive takeaway for New Zealand. Looking ahead, he highlighted the challenge of facing South Africa in Lahore on March 4, especially against their pace-heavy attack.
“Our next game is in Lahore, where (Matt) Henry will be massive. On those wickets with some pace and bounce, they have four good pacers, so we will have to see how we play them.”
India’s Innings: Iyer and Axar Anchor Recovery, Hardik Finishes Strong
After being put in to bat, India suffered an early setback, losing three quick wickets for just 30 runs. However, a crucial 98-run stand between Shreyas Iyer (79) and Axar Patel (42) helped them recover.
Key highlights:
- KL Rahul (23) and Ravindra Jadeja (16) chipped in, but India was 182/6 at one stage.
- Hardik Pandya (45 off 45) provided a late flourish, lifting India to 249/9 in 50 overs.
- Matt Henry starred for New Zealand, claiming 5/42 in 8 overs.
India’s Spinners Decimate New Zealand’s Chase
Chasing 250, New Zealand struggled against India’s spinners:
- Hardik Pandya struck first, dismissing Rachin Ravindra (6).
- Varun Chakravarthy (5/42) ran riot, dismantling the middle order.
- Kuldeep Yadav (2/56) and Axar, Jadeja, Hardik (1 wicket each) provided key breakthroughs.
Williamson’s 81 was the only major resistance, but once Chakravarthy had him stumped, the game was sealed. New Zealand was all out for 205 in 45.3 overs.
India to Face Australia in Semifinal on March 4
India, unbeaten in the group stage, will now face Australia in the semifinal in Dubai. Meanwhile, New Zealand will meet South Africa in Lahore, hoping for a fresh surface that suits their pace attack.
Final Scorecard
India – 249/9 in 50 overs (Iyer 79, Axar 42, Hardik 45; Henry 5/42)
New Zealand – 205 all out in 45.3 overs (Williamson 81; Chakravarthy 5/42, Kuldeep 2/56)
🔹 India won by 44 runs.