India secured an unbeaten path to the semifinals of the 2025 Champions Trophy, concluding at the top of Group A with a victory over New Zealand on Sunday in Dubai. The spinners played a pivotal role in this triumph, claiming nine out of ten wickets as they restricted the Black Caps to 205 in their pursuit of 250 runs. Varun Chakaravarthy was particularly impressive, achieving his first five-wicket haul, but it was Axar Patel's dismissal of Kane Williamson that significantly shifted the momentum in India's favor.

Williamson, the former New Zealand captain, appeared poised to lead his team to victory with a century, having scored 81 runs and being the last recognized batsman. However, a brilliant delivery from Axar dashed those hopes on the final ball of the 41st over.

The spinner delivered a ball with added flight to the middle, catching Williamson off guard as he advanced down the pitch, anticipating a quicker delivery. In his attempt to secure a single and return to strike for the next over, the ball slipped past his inside edge and struck the leg stump, allowing wicketkeeper KL Rahul to execute a straightforward stumping. Williamson did not glance back as he made his way to the dressing room.

Shortly after the dismissal, Virat Kohli approached Axar in a lighthearted manner, surprising him by touching his feet. Axar, unable to contain his laughter, attempted to stop Kohli, and soon, their teammates joined in to congratulate Axar once more.

India set semifinal date with Australia

India secured their position at the top of Group A with a hat trick of victories, thereby advancing to the semifinals of the 2025 Champions Trophy. Their next challenge will be against Australia in Dubai on Tuesday. The team, led by Steve Smith, managed only one win during the group stage, as two matches were abandoned due to rain in Pakistan.

This upcoming match is anticipated as an opportunity for India to seek redemption for their defeat in the 2023 ODI World Cup final held on home soil, where Australia triumphed by six wickets against a formidable Indian team.

In the second semifinal, South Africa, the leaders of Group B, will compete against New Zealand in Pakistan on Wednesday, with the final scheduled for Sunday.

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