Champions Trophy 2025: Who won yesterday's game between India vs New Zealand?

India secured a 44-run victory over New Zealand in the final Group A match of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy in Dubai, finishing the group stage unbeaten with three wins. Varun Chakravarthy was named Player of the Match for his five-wicket haul, taking 5/42.

Advertisment

After winning the toss, New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner opted to bowl first. The decision initially paid off as India lost Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, and Virat Kohli cheaply, slipping to 30/3. However, Shreyas Iyer (79 off 98) and Axar Patel (43 off 56) steadied the innings with a crucial 98-run partnership. 

KL Rahul (23 off 29) and Ravindra Jadeja (16 off 20) chipped in with handy contributions, while Hardik Pandya’s 45 off 45 balls provided the finishing touch as India posted 249/9 in 50 overs. 

Matt Henry led New Zealand’s bowling attack with a five-wicket haul, while Kyle Jamieson, Will O’Rourke, Mitchell Santner, and Rachin Ravindra each picked up one wicket. Glenn Phillips and Kane Williamson took stunning catches that left Indian batters surprised.

Let’s take a look at New Zealand’s chase

Advertisment

In response, Hardik Pandya provided an early breakthrough by dismissing Rachin Ravindra. Varun Chakravarthy, brought into the XI in place of Harshit Rana, justified his selection with a five-wicket haul. 

Despite losing wickets, New Zealand was 151/4 in the 36th over and looked in control. However, they collapsed, losing their last six wickets for just 54 runs. India’s spinners dominated, with Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, and Kuldeep Yadav also picking up wickets. 

Nine of New Zealand’s ten dismissals were to spin as they struggled on a turning pitch, eventually getting bowled out for 205 in 45.3 overs. Kane Williamson fought hard with 81 off 120 balls but lacked support from the other end. As the match progressed, the pitch started offering more spin and grip, making New Zealand’s decision to bowl first backfire.

Advertisment

India will now face Australia in the first semi-final on 4 March in Dubai, while New Zealand will take on South Africa in the second semi-final on 5 March in Lahore.

Brief scores:

New Zealand won the toss and elected to bowl first

India: 249/9 (50) 

Shreyas Iyer 79 (98), Hardik Pandya 45 (45), Matt Henry 5/42, Kyle Jamieson 1/31

New Zealand: 205/10 (45.3)

Kane Williamson 81 (120), Mitchell Santner 28 (31), Varun Chakravarthy 5/42, Kuldeep Yadav 2/56             

India won by 44 runs.

Stay updated with the latest cricket news, match insights, and exclusive updates at Sky247 India and download the Sky247 app to start betting today!