Dubai, UAE; Dubai witnessed a gripping first innings as New Zealand, determined to challenge India's undefeated streak, posted a fighting 251/7 in their allotted 50 overs in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final. Despite missing their ace pacer Matt Henry due to injury, the Black Caps put up a competitive total, propelled by Michael Bracewell’s late blitz.
New Zealand’s innings was a tale of resilience, composure, and calculated aggression. Daryl Mitchell anchored the innings with a patient 63 off 101 balls, ensuring stability in the middle order. However, with wickets falling at regular intervals, the Kiwis found themselves struggling for momentum.
Just when India seemed to have a firm grip on the game, Michael Bracewell’s fearless stroke play injected life into New Zealand’s innings. His quick-fire half-century, coming off just 39 balls, included a flurry of boundaries and a crucial six off Hardik Pandya in the penultimate over. His last-over heroics ensured that the Black Caps breached the 250-run mark, giving their bowlers something to defend.
India’s spinners once again showcased their class, putting the brakes on New Zealand’s scoring rate. Kuldeep Yadav (2/42) and Ravindra Jadeja (1/30) choked the middle order, while Varun Chakravarthy (2/45) created vital breakthroughs.
Despite New Zealand’s attempts to accelerate, they found themselves tied down by India’s disciplined bowling attack. The turning point came when Tom Latham was trapped LBW by Jadeja, halting New Zealand’s rebuild and forcing them to reassess their approach.
As the innings neared its climax, a dramatic runout saw Mitchell Santner fall short of his crease at 239/7, courtesy of a brilliant throw from Virat Kohli. This moment of brilliance cut short a promising stand and highlighted India’s sharp fielding.
Although New Zealand had their eyes set on a 260-plus total, disciplined Indian bowling in the final overs restricted them to 251/7. The equation is now set – India need 252 runs to lift their first ICC Champions Trophy title in 12 years.
With both teams having previously won this coveted trophy, the battle for supremacy is far from over. Can India’s batters rise to the occasion, or will New Zealand’s bowlers script a historic turnaround? The chase promises to be a thrilling spectacle.