India in Trouble as Rohit Sharma Falls for 76 in Champions Trophy Final Against New Zealand

India Stumble in Chase of 252, Lose Three Quick Wickets After Strong Start: Score after 30 Overs: 136 for 3

March 9, 2025: India Lose Momentum as Rohit Falls, Three-Down in Champions Trophy Final vs New Zealand

India’s chase of 252 runs in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final has hit a rough patch after captain Rohit Sharma’s dismissal for 76 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. The Indian skipper looked in sublime touch but fell stumped while attempting an aggressive shot off Rachin Ravindra, leaving India at 122/3 in the 26th over.

Also Read: Rohit Sharma’s Explosive 50 Puts India in Command in Champions Trophy Final Against New Zealand

A Flying Start Followed by a Sudden Collapse

India got off to a dream start, with Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill putting up a solid opening stand of 105 runs. However, the momentum shifted when Glenn Phillips took a stunning catch to dismiss Gill for 31. Soon after, Virat Kohli was trapped LBW by Michael Bracewell on just his second ball, dealing India another major blow.

With Rohit’s wicket, the Blackcaps firmly clawed their way back into the contest, putting pressure on India’s middle order.

Also Read: Rohit Sharma’s Toss Curse: Sets Unwanted Record in Champions Trophy Final

New Zealand’s Fightback with Spin

New Zealand’s spinners have turned the tide in their favor, with Mitchell Santner, Rachin Ravindra, and Michael Bracewell all striking at crucial moments. India now need 114 runs off 118 balls, with Shreyas Iyer and Axar Patel at the crease.

India’s Chase at a Glance:

• Target: 252
• Current Score: 136/3 (30 overs)
• Rohit Sharma: 76 (83 balls)
• Shubman Gill: 31 (50 balls)
• Virat Kohli: 0 (2 balls)
• Shreyas Iyer: 19* (31 balls)
• Axar Patel: 4* (13 balls)
• New Zealand Bowlers:
  • Rachin Ravindra: 8-1-30-1
  • Michael Bracewell: 5-1-14-1

What’s Next?

India still needs a strong partnership to regain control of the chase. With Shreyas Iyer and Axar Patel at the crease, the onus is on them to stabilize the innings and keep the required run rate in check. New Zealand, on the other hand, will look for quick breakthroughs to tighten their grip on the game.

Will India recover, or is this the turning point for the Blackcaps? Stay tuned for live updates!

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