Varun Chakravarthy's Five-Wicket Haul Powers India to Champions Trophy Semifinals

Sports Cricket

Posted by NewAdmin on 2025-03-04 08:53:20 |

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India clinched a crucial 44-run victory over New Zealand in the final group stage match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, topping Group A and securing a semifinal spot against Australia. The victory came on the back of a sensational bowling performance by Varun Chakravarthy, who claimed five wickets to dismantle the Black Caps' batting lineup.

Batting first, India faced early setbacks as they were reduced to 30/3 by the seventh over, with Rohit Sharma (15), Shubman Gill (2), and Virat Kohli (11) departing cheaply. However, Shreyas Iyer (79 off 98) and Axar Patel (42) steadied the innings with a 92-run partnership, guiding India to a competitive total of 249. Despite Matt Henry’s five-wicket haul and some outstanding catches from Kane Williamson and Glenn Phillips, the Men in Blue managed to post a defendable target.

Chasing 250, New Zealand's hopes rested on their captain Kane Williamson, who top-scored with 81 runs. However, the Kiwis struggled to build partnerships as Chakravarthy's magical spell dismantled the middle order. His figures of 5/34 proved decisive, with key dismissals of Williamson and Glenn Phillips turning the game in India's favor.

India's win marked a significant turnaround against a side that had historically dominated them in global tournaments. The victory not only sealed India's semifinal berth but also avenged their earlier defeats to New Zealand in the Champions Trophy and the Tri-Series. With Australia awaiting in the semifinals, the Rohit Sharma-led team will look to carry forward their momentum and aim for their first Champions Trophy title since 2013.

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