Dubai: India remains in control of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final, despite losing key wickets, as they chase 252 against New Zealand.
Rohit and Gill Lay a Strong Foundation
India got off to a flying start, with Rohit Sharma (76) and Shubman Gill (31) putting up a solid opening stand of 105 runs. Rohit, in particular, was aggressive, smashing two massive sixes off Nathan Smith.
New Zealand, however, fought back as Glenn Phillips pulled off a stunning catch to dismiss Gill, followed by Virat Kohli (1) falling to Michael Bracewell’s LBW appeal after a DRS review.
New Zealand’s Fightback
India’s momentum slowed further as Rachin Ravindra removed Rohit Sharma (76) with a brilliant stumping. With India at 122/3, Shreyas Iyer (48) and KL Rahul attempted to steady the chase. Iyer played some stunning shots, including a 109m six, but fell just short of his half-century as Rachin Ravindra took a diving catch off Mitchell Santner’s bowling.
Axar Patel contributed a quick 29 but was dismissed by Bracewell, leaving India at 203/5, needing 49 runs in 51 balls.
Can India Finish the Job?
With KL Rahul well-set, India remains in the driver’s seat. New Zealand’s bowlers must strike quickly to keep their title hopes alive.
