Ganguly Backs India’s Strength in White-Ball Cricket, Hails Shami and Team’s Semifinal Berth
Kolkata, March 3: Former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly heaped praise on Team India after their comprehensive 44-run win over New Zealand in the final group-stage match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, asserting that India has the capability to defeat any team in white-ball cricket.
India finished the group stage unbeaten, securing three wins in three matches and setting up a highly anticipated semi-final clash against Australia on March 4 in Dubai.
“India won the last T20 World Cup (in 2024) and played in the final (of the 50-over World Cup in 2023). It is a very strong team in white-ball cricket, no matter who is on the opposite side. It has the capability to defeat anyone,” Ganguly said.
Shami’s Comeback: Ganguly Praises the Veteran Pacer
Ganguly also acknowledged the impact of Mohammed Shami, who made a stellar return to the Champions Trophy after battling injuries. Shami’s five-wicket haul against Pakistan in the tournament opener was a standout moment.
“Injuries happen to anyone. It is a part of a fast bowler’s career. He has won so many matches for India with (Jasprit) Bumrah. He is such a fine bowler,” Ganguly added.
India’s Dominant Performance Against New Zealand
After New Zealand won the toss and opted to bowl, India suffered an early collapse, reduced to 30/3. However, a 98-run partnership between Shreyas Iyer (79) and Axar Patel (42) stabilized the innings.
Despite losing Iyer and KL Rahul (23 in 29 balls), a 41-run stand between Hardik Pandya (45) and Ravindra Jadeja (16) ensured India reached a fighting total of 249/9 in 50 overs.
New Zealand’s Matt Henry was the pick of the bowlers, claiming 5/42 in eight overs.
During the chase, New Zealand kept losing wickets at regular intervals. Kane Williamson fought hard with 81 off 120 balls, but Varun Chakravarthy’s mystery spin (5/42) dismantled the Kiwi middle order.
Kuldeep Yadav also played a key role, taking 2/56, while Axar Patel, Hardik Pandya, and Ravindra Jadeja chipped in with a wicket each.
India eventually bowled out New Zealand for 205, winning by 44 runs to top Group A.
India vs. Australia: A Semi-Final Showdown Awaits
With this victory, India now faces arch-rivals Australia in the semi-finals on March 4 in Dubai. The last time these two teams met in an ICC knockout game was the 2023 World Cup final, where Australia emerged victorious.
With India in top form and a well-rounded squad, they will be aiming to avenge their World Cup heartbreak and secure a spot in the Champions Trophy final.
Can Rohit Sharma and Co. outplay the Aussies and continue their unbeaten run? The answer awaits in Dubai!
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India vs New Zealand, India vs Australia, ICC Champions Trophy 2025, Sourav Ganguly, Mohammed Shami, Rohit Sharma, Team India, Cricket News, Champions Trophy Semi-Final