Mugdha Das

IND vs NZ ICC Champions Trophy 2025: India defeats New Zealand by 44 runs

Digital Desk: With an incredible 5/42 against New Zealand, Varun Chakravarthy orchestrated a spin masterpiece, marking a historic comeback in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. In their final group-stage match, India defeated the Kiwis by 44 runs thanks to their outstanding performance, securing a crucial semi-final match with Australia.

India's all-around performance compensated for their batting performance and supported Chakravarthy's brilliant performance.

India only managed 249/9 in their 50 overs after being forced to bat first because of New Zealand's unrelenting attack.

After a lackluster performance in the United Arab Emirates during his last international cricket match, Chakravarthy's victory is a major turning point in his career. He will be an important player, and his outstanding performance has made a powerful statement.

India scored 249 for 9 thanks to the vital 79 from Shreyas Iyer, 45 from Hardik Pandya, and 42 from Axar Patel. Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Shubman Gill returned with just 30 runs scored, and India lost wickets quickly. But they recovered thanks to Shreyas Iyer and Axar Patel's 98-run partnership. Matt Henry was the standout bowler for the Blackcaps, taking five wickets (5 for 42).