India’s spinners crush New Zealand in 44-run win

India's spinners showcased their prowess against New Zealand in the 2025 Champions Trophy, successfully defending a modest total of 249/9 to secure a 44-run victory. The triumph wasn't merely a win but a dominant display, as Indian spinners claimed all but one of the Kiwi wickets. Varun Chakravarthy was instrumental, claiming a five-wicket haul. Ravindra Jadeja took one crucial wicket in the 33rd over, dismissing a New Zealand batter who misjudged a reverse sweep and was trapped leg before wicket. Jadeja's passionate appeal and on-field celebration, however, drew criticism from former New Zealand cricketer-turned-commentator Simon Doull, who noted Jadeja's run along the pitch, an action typically warned against. New Zealand had won the toss and opted to bowl. The Indian top order struggled, and the team was reduced to 30/3. A resilient 98-run partnership between Shreyas Iyer, who scored 79, and Axar Patel, who made 42 off 61 balls, including five fours and a six, revived India's innings. Following Iyer's departure, India slipped to 182/6. A steady 41-run partnership between Jadeja, who scored 16 off 20 balls, and Hardik Pandya, who contributed 45 off 45 balls with four boundaries and two sixes, pushed India to 249/9 in their allotted 50 overs. New Zealand's bowlers made impressive strides, with one bowler securing 5/42 in eight overs. Chasing 250, New Zealand struggled, consistently losing wickets. Despite an anchor-like 81 off 120 balls, embellished with seven fours, by one Kiwi batter, Varun Chakravarthy dismantled New Zealand's middle order with figures of 5/42. Kuldeep Yadav added to the pressure with 2/56 in 9.3 overs, while Axar Patel, Hardik Pandya, and Ravindra Jadeja each chipped in with a wicket. This match was a redemption for Chakravarthy, especially after three challenging games in the T20 World Cup 2021. His stellar performance in just his second ODI not only guided India to a comprehensive win over New Zealand but also ensured a clean sweep in the league stage with three victories. Chakravarthy was deservingly named Player of the Match for his game-changing spell that dismantled the Kiwi middle order.