New Zealand posted 251 for seven in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final at Dubai, setting India a target of 252 to claim the title.
New Zealand’s innings was a mix of early struggles and late acceleration, with Daryl Mitchell and Michael Bracewell leading their fightback.
Indian spinners were outstanding, containing runs on the crucial moments, and preventing New Zealand batters from scoring quickly.
Mitchell anchored the innings with a patient 63 off 101 balls, while Bracewell provided the finishing push with an aggressive 53 off 40 deliveries.
The Black Caps got off to a promising start, with Rachin Ravindra scoring a quick 37 off 29 balls.
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However, wickets fell at crucial intervals, including captain Kane Williamson (11), who was caught and bowled by Kuldeep Yadav. By the halfway mark, New Zealand were 108 for four, struggling to build partnerships against India's disciplined bowling.
Glenn Phillips contributed 34, but it was Bracewell’s late surge that ensured New Zealand passed 250-plus total.
India’s bowlers, led by Varun Chakravarthy and Kuldeep Yadav, kept the scoring in check. Both picked up two wickets each, with Varun conceding just 45 runs in his 10 overs. Ravindra Jadeja was also economical, taking one wicket while giving away only 30 runs in his full quota.
Mohammed Shami had a tough outing, finishing with figures of one for 74 in nine overs, while Hardik Pandya remained wicketless in his three expensive overs, conceding 30 runs.