India secured the top spot in Group A with a commanding 44-run victory over New Zealand, despite early struggles from their top order.
Shreyas Iyer played a crucial knock on a rare off day for India’s top order, helping the team post 249. Despite Matt Henry’s impressive bowling, India set a challenging target, which proved enough thanks to Varun Chakravarthy’s match-winning spell.
India bowled out New Zealand for 205 in Dubai, with Chakravarthy taking 5 for 42, ensuring his side remained unbeaten in the group stage. This win sets up a semi-final clash against Australia, while New Zealand will face South Africa.
Chakravarthy’s Brilliance Secures Victory
On a day when India’s batting faltered, it was their spinners who rose to the occasion. Playing just his second ODI, the 33-year-old Chakravarthy dismantled the Kiwi batting lineup, claiming the Player of the Match award with a five-wicket haul.
India’s Rocky Start
Rohit Sharma lost the toss for the tenth consecutive time, but India still got their wish to bat first. However, Matt Henry and Kyle Jamieson put India under pressure early, reducing them to 30/3 inside seven overs.
Henry dismissed Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli, with Glenn Phillips taking a brilliant catch to remove Kohli. Jamieson sent back Rohit Sharma, leaving India struggling.
Iyer then stabilized the innings, forging partnerships with Axar Patel (98 runs) and KL Rahul (44 runs). He scored 79 off 98 balls before falling to a sharp bouncer from Will O’Rourke. Hardik Pandya provided a late boost with 45 off 45 balls, pushing India close to 250.
Henry finished with 5 for 42, the standout bowler for New Zealand.
New Zealand’s Chase Falters
Chasing 250, New Zealand relied on Kane Williamson, but he found little support from his teammates. Hardik Pandya struck early, dismissing Rachin Ravindra with a short ball, while Chakravarthy took over from there.
The wrist-spinner removed Will Young before running through the middle order. Williamson fought hard with a composed 81 off 120 balls, but Axar Patel dismissed him, sealing New Zealand’s fate.
Despite their deep batting lineup, New Zealand crumbled under pressure, losing by 44 runs.
Match Summary
India: 249/9 in 50 overs (Shreyas 79, Pandya 45; Henry 5/42)
New Zealand: 205 in 45.3 overs (Williamson 81; Chakravarthy 5/42)
Result: India won by 44 runs
Player of the Match: Varun Chakravarthy
