Champions Trophy: Axar Caught at 42, Shreyas Iyer Hits 50, Leads India’s Comeback After Early Collapse Against New Zealand

IND vs NZ, Champions Trophy 2025: India Recover as Iyer, Axar Steady the Innings in Dubai

March 2, 2025: India staged a remarkable comeback in their final Group A clash against New Zealand in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, after being reduced to 30/3 in just 6.4 overs. Shreyas Iyer (55 off 82) and Axar Patel (42 off 60) steadied the innings, guiding India past 134/4 in 32 overs at the Dubai International Stadium. Axar was caught by Williamson balled by Rachin Ravindra.

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India’s Rocky Start

New Zealand’s bowlers dominated the first powerplay, with Matt Henry (2/38) and Kyle Jamieson (1/9) wreaking havoc:
✅ Shubman Gill (2) – LBW by Matt Henry
✅ Rohit Sharma (15) – Caught by Will Young off Kyle Jamieson
✅ Virat Kohli (9) – Brilliant catch by Glenn Phillips

Also Read: Champions Trophy: India vs New Zealand Update: Kohli Departs, India Loose 3 Quick Wickets Inside 10 Overs

Virat Kohli, playing his 300th ODI, was left stunned as Phillips took a blinder at short cover, leading to India’s third wicket downfall.

Iyer, Axar Lead India’s Fightback

Facing a fired-up Kiwi attack, Shreyas Iyer played a crucial knock, reaching his half-century in 75 balls, while Axar Patel provided solid support. Their 97-run partnership helped India cross 100 runs in 24.4 overs.

Key Highlights:

📌 Shreyas Iyer’s 50 (75 balls) – Crucial under pressure
📌 Axar Patel’s aggressive – 42 off 60 balls*
📌 India reach 134/4 in 32 overs, aiming for a competitive total

With wickets in hand, India will look to accelerate in the final overs and post a challenging total against New Zealand.

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