‘Irresistible KulChakra’ Spin Weave Web Around Kiwis; India Dominate First Innings in Champions Trophy Final
UAE – India’s spin quartet delivered a masterclass in Dubai, restricting New Zealand to a modest 251/7 in the Champions Trophy final. After losing the toss and being asked to bat, the Black Caps struggled to break free from India’s mesmerizing spin attack, led by the wily Varun Chakaravarthy and the crafty Kuldeep Yadav, both bagging two wickets apiece.
New Zealand’s innings began promisingly with Rachin Ravindra and Will Young putting on a solid 57-run opening stand. However, the spin tide turned when Chakaravarthy struck first, trapping Young LBW for a struggling 15. Kuldeep Yadav then ripped through the Kiwi top order, dismissing the dangerous Rachin Ravindra for a quickfire 37 and then brilliantly catching and bowling the prized wicket of Kane Williamson for just 11.
Ravindra Jadeja joined the spin party, adding to New Zealand’s woes by removing Tom Latham for a painstaking 14. Amidst the spin chaos, Daryl Mitchell showed resilience, anchoring the innings with a patient 63 off 101 balls. Late fireworks came from Michael Bracewell, who blasted an unbeaten 53 off just 40 deliveries, injecting much-needed momentum and pushing New Zealand past the 250 mark.
Despite Bracewell’s valiant effort, the first innings firmly belongs to India’s spinners. They choked the New Zealand scoring rate and consistently chipped away at wickets. The Kiwis have a total to defend, but it looks like India are firmly in the driver’s seat as they head into the chase. Can the Indian batsmen capitalize on the spinners’ brilliance? We’re set for a thrilling second innings in Dubai.
