India tops Group A with strong spin attack in 44-run win over New Zealand

In a captivating encounter at the ICC Champions Trophy, India successfully defended a total of 249 runs, securing a 44-run victory over New Zealand in the 12th match of Group A. This victory not only marked India’s sixth consecutive win over New Zealand but also saw them advance to the semi-finals, where they will face Australia in Dubai. The match, held on March 2, 2025, at Dubai International Cricket Stadium, showcased a stellar bowling performance, particularly from India’s spinners, and highlighted some crucial batting contributions that steered the team towards a challenging total.

How Did India’s Spinners Dominate New Zealand’s Chase?

The game unfolded with India opting to bat first, setting a target of 250 runs for New Zealand. A steady Indian batting lineup saw Shreyas Iyer top-scoring with a cautious 79 runs, followed by contributions from Axar Patel, who made 42 runs. However, it was the spinners who proved to be the real heroes for India in this low-scoring contest. With the ball gripping and spinning under the conditions, India’s bowlers exploited the slow, turning track to perfection, taking nine wickets for just 166 runs in 37.3 overs.

Varun Chakravarthy, who had previously faced challenges at this venue in 2021, returned to the scene with a vengeance, claiming an impressive five-wicket haul. His performance was critical in stifling New Zealand’s chase, where they struggled to gain momentum. Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, and Axar Patel supported Varun effectively, with Jadeja’s crucial wicket of Tom Latham marking a pivotal moment in the match. The spinners’ grip on the game was evident as they bowled 29 overs during the middle phase, completely dominating the contest and leaving New Zealand with little chance of reaching the target.

What Impact Did New Zealand’s Seamers Have on India’s Innings?

While India’s spinners excelled, New Zealand’s seamers, led by Matt Henry, kept India under pressure early in their innings. India found themselves in a precarious position at 30 for 3, with the top order struggling against the seam movement on offer. Matt Henry’s brilliant 5-42 spell provided the breakthrough for New Zealand, keeping India’s score in check. His ability to extract seam and swing was a testament to his skill, and it was evident in his ability to trouble key Indian batsmen such as Virat Kohli, who was dismissed in spectacular fashion by Glenn Phillips.

Despite the early setbacks, India recovered through a determined partnership between Shreyas Iyer and Axar Patel. Iyer, who had struggled to score quickly early on, adapted his approach by playing a patient knock, ensuring the team maintained a steady run rate. Their 98-run stand not only stabilized the innings but also built the platform for India’s lower order to push the total closer to 250. Hardik Pandya’s late flurry of 45 runs off 46 balls ensured India reached a competitive total, despite the challenges posed by New Zealand’s bowling attack.

How Did India’s Strategic Bowling Plan Restrict New Zealand?

When it was New Zealand’s turn to chase, the pitch conditions continued to offer significant assistance to the bowlers. India’s plan to bowl 37.3 overs of spin proved to be a masterstroke, especially considering the slow, low nature of the track. The spin trio of Varun Chakravarthy, Ravindra Jadeja, and Kuldeep Yadav, combined with the occasional seam movement provided by Hardik Pandya, completely tied down the New Zealand batting line-up.

The turning point came when Williamson, who was holding the chase together, fell to Varun Chakravarthy after a valiant innings of 81 runs. New Zealand, needing 94 runs from the final 10 overs with just four wickets remaining, had little hope left. Despite a late partnership between Mitchell Santner and Williamson, the pressure mounted, and India sealed the victory with a well-executed bowling strategy that left New Zealand unable to accelerate or take risks in the final overs.

What Was the Key Factor in India’s Dominant Win?

The key factor in India’s comprehensive victory was their ability to adapt to the conditions and execute their strategies effectively. While India’s top order struggled against the seamers, the spinners took control in the middle overs, exploiting the slow pitch. The presence of multiple spin options—especially Varun Chakravarthy, who had previously struggled at this venue—proved to be a masterstroke. His five-wicket haul turned the game in India’s favor, marking a successful comeback after a previous setback.

Moreover, India’s bowling unit as a whole performed admirably, especially given the absence of significant dew, which had led to batting difficulties in earlier games. Hardik Pandya’s ability to create early breakthroughs with the new ball and the consistent pressure exerted by the spinners ensured that New Zealand’s chase was never truly on course.

How Did India Approach Their Semi-Final Against Australia?

With this victory, India topped Group A and secured a semi-final berth, where they will face a formidable Australian side. While the win against New Zealand was important, India will have to bring their best performance to the semi-final, with Australia’s rich history in ICC tournaments providing a tough challenge. Indian captain Rohit Sharma emphasized the importance of maintaining consistency and correcting mistakes quickly in the knockout stages of the tournament. With Australia boasting an impressive record in ICC tournaments, India will need to deliver an all-round performance to secure their place in the final.

What’s Next for New Zealand?

New Zealand, on the other hand, will head to Lahore to face South Africa in the other semi-final. Despite their loss, the team showed resilience, with captain Kane Williamson’s innings being a highlight. However, their inability to handle India’s spinners and the lack of partnerships in the chase proved to be their downfall. Moving forward, New Zealand will need to regroup and focus on tackling South Africa’s pace-heavy attack in the semi-final.

India’s victory over New Zealand was a testament to their strategic depth and the adaptability of their bowling attack, particularly in challenging conditions. With the semi-final against Australia now in their sights, India will look to continue their impressive form in what promises to be a thrilling encounter. New Zealand’s journey in the tournament may have ended in defeat, but their spirit and individual performances will give them confidence as they prepare for future challenges.