Champions Trophy 2025: India Thrashes NZ, Confirms Semifinal Date with Australia

In its final league match of the Champions Trophy 2025, Team India secured a commanding 44-run victory over New Zealand, finishing at the top of Group A. With this win, India has confirmed its place in the semifinals, where it will face Australia on March 4 in Dubai.

Winning the toss, New Zealand opted to bowl first. Batting first, India posted a total of 249 for 9 in 50 overs. While the score appeared modest, India’s spirited bowling performance ensured a comfortable win as they bowled out New Zealand for 205 in 45.3 overs.

Mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy was the standout performer, claiming five wickets and playing a crucial role in India’s triumph. Kuldeep Yadav took two wickets, while Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, and Ravindra Jadeja took one wicket each. For New Zealand, Kane Williamson was the top scorer with 81 runs, while opener Will Young contributed 22, and captain Mitchell Santner scored 28.

With this match, the league stage of the Champions Trophy 2025 has concluded, and the semifinal fixtures are now confirmed. India and New Zealand have qualified from Group A, while South Africa and Australia have advanced from Group B.

India will take on Australia in the first semifinal on March 4 in Dubai, while the second semifinal between South Africa and New Zealand will be held on March 5 in Lahore. The final is scheduled for March 9. If India reaches the final, the match will be played in Dubai; however, if India is eliminated in the semifinals, the final will take place in Pakistan.