Dubai, UAE: The ICC Final in Dubai has taken a dramatic turn as New Zealand claws its way back into contention, rattling India’s chase of 252. With 28 overs bowled, India stands at 128-3, feeling the heat under the floodlights.
Amid mounting pressure, Shreyas Iyer momentarily eased nerves, launching Bracewell’s delivery over the leg side for a maximum in the 27.3rd over. Fielding near the rope, Will Young made a valiant effort but couldn’t prevent the six. This could be a crucial turning point for India, which had been struggling to find runs.
Just an over earlier, Rachin Ravindra delivered a game-changing moment, dismissing Rohit Sharma for 76. Sharma, looking to accelerate, danced down the pitch but misread the turn, allowing Tom Latham to swiftly whip off the bails. The dismissal left India at 122-3, bringing Axar Patel to the crease as a left-handed reinforcement.
New Zealand’s strategy of persistent spin is proving effective. Ravindra’s wicket-maiden over (27th over) and Bracewell’s economical spell have applied immense pressure, with India’s run rate dipping to 5.65. In the 26th over, Bracewell bowled a maiden, stifling the chase and quieting the Indian crowd.
New Zealand has been sharp in the field, but they’ve also had a few nervy moments. Earlier, Bracewell nearly had Iyer with a caught-and-bowled opportunity, but the ball landed just short. Meanwhile, Glenn Phillips’ stunning catch to dismiss Shubman Gill earlier in the innings remains one of the highlights of the match.
The turning point for New Zealand came when Michael Bracewell trapped Virat Kohli LBW for just 1 run. The Indian talisman immediately reviewed the decision, but DRS confirmed that he was plumb in front, sending shockwaves through the stadium.
With 128-3 in 28 overs, the match remains delicately poised. Shreyas Iyer and Axar Patel hold India’s hopes in their hands. With 124 runs still needed and the Kiwi spinners tightening the screws, the question remains – can India break free and reclaim control, or will New Zealand’s relentless attack script an underdog victory?
Stay tuned for further updates as the tension in Dubai reaches boiling point!