Dubai: New Zealand have set India a target of 252 in the Champions Trophy 2025 final, posting 251/7 in 50 overs after a fighting performance from Daryl Mitchell (52) and Michael Bracewell (53)*. Despite India’s dominance in the middle overs, the Kiwis fought back in the last five overs, adding 50 runs to give their bowlers something to defend.
Spin Magic & Missed Chances
India’s spinners, led by Varun Chakravarthy (2/44), Ravindra Jadeja (1/30), and Axar Patel, applied the chokehold in the middle overs. Jadeja’s final spell might be his last ODI outing for India, and he ended on a high. However, India were guilty of dropping multiple catches, with Shubman Gill and Rohit Sharma missing opportunities.
Chakravarthy’s breakthrough wicket of Glenn Phillips (34) in the 38th over was a turning point, but Kuldeep Yadav’s costly errors in the field drew visible frustration from Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.
Bracewell’s Late Blitz Gives NZ Hope
New Zealand’s hopes of a competitive total rested on Michael Bracewell, who played a counter-attacking 50 off 39 balls, smashing three fours and two sixes. He took on Mohammed Shami (1/42) and Jasprit Bumrah in the death overs, ensuring NZ crossed 250.
A run-out of Mitchell Santner in the final over didn’t stop the late charge, and Bracewell’s aggressive cameo ensured India will need to chase 252 under lights in Dubai.
India’s Chase: Can Rohit & Co. Deliver?
India has chased 229, 242, and 265 in the tournament so far. With a deep batting lineup, the Men in Blue will fancy their chances. Can Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli lead from the front, or will New Zealand’s bowlers script a stunning turnaround?
