A cricket wicketkeeper in blue watches as a batsman in black narrowly avoids being bowled, with spectators in the background.

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India Defeats New Zealand by 44 Runs to Set Up Semi-Final with Australia

India triumphed over New Zealand by 44 runs in the final group match of the Champions Trophy, setting up a semi-final clash with Australia. Batting first, India posted a total of 249-9 in 50 overs, with Shreyas Iyer top-scoring with 79 runs off 98 balls. New Zealand, in reply, were bowled out for 205 in 45.3 overs. India’s spinners were the standout performers, with Varun Chakravarthy claiming 5 wickets for 42 runs, dismantling the Black Caps’ batting lineup.

Despite a fighting knock of 81 from Kane Williamson, New Zealand’s run chase faltered as the required run rate steadily climbed. India’s bowlers maintained consistent pressure, and New Zealand’s last seven wickets fell for just 72 runs. Early wickets saw India struggling at 30-3, but a vital partnership of 98 between Axar Patel and Iyer steadied the innings. Hardik Pandya also chipped in with a quick 45 from 45 balls to help India reach a competitive total.

India will now face Australia in the semi-finals, while New Zealand, having already qualified for the knockout stages, will meet South Africa in Lahore.

India’s dominant spin attack, with the likes of Chakravarthy, continues to be a major strength heading into the semi-finals.

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