Michael Bracewell, batting left-handed, scored an impressive unbeaten 53 to guide New Zealand to a competitive total in the ICC Men's Champions Trophy 2025 final against India at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Sunday. His 40-ball innings, featuring 3 fours and 2 sixes, helped the BlackCaps reach 251/7 in their 50 overs.

This score gives the Kiwis something to defend, and under Mitchell Santner's captaincy, they’ll be counting on Bracewell, along with Glenn Phillips and Rachin Ravindra, to apply pressure on the Indian batting order with their spin bowling.

Bracewell took on Indian pacers Mohammed Shami and Hardik Pandya, and his aggressive play in the final overs was key to New Zealand surpassing the 250-run mark.

He also formed a vital 46-run partnership with Daryl Mitchell for the sixth wicket, which steadied New Zealand's innings after the Indian spinners had slowed their scoring in the middle overs.

The Indian spin attack, featuring Varun Chakaravarthy, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, and Ravindra Jadeja, claimed five wickets collectively, putting New Zealand in a tricky position.

Kuldeep Yadav stands out as the top bowler

Kuldeep Yadav stood out among the Indian bowlers, finishing with impressive figures of 2/40. He played a crucial role by taking down both Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson.

Rachin and Will Young got New Zealand off to a solid start with a 57-run opening partnership, giving them a good boost early on. But then Varun Chakaravarthy struck first by getting Young out, and Kuldeep followed up in his opening over by dismissing Rachin for 37.

Daryl Mitchell was the top scorer for the Kiwis, making 63 runs. However, his innings of 101 balls was filled with a lot of dot balls, which added pressure on his batting partner.

Varun Chakaravarthy also had a good day, picking up two wickets by getting both Young and Glenn Phillips out.

On the Indian side, seamers Shami and Hardik gave away 104 runs in 12 overs, while the spinners bowled 38 overs, allowing 144 runs and taking five wickets.

Read Also: Virat Kohli Offers Tactical Advice to Rohit Sharma: Field Placement Adjustment in Champions Trophy Final

HOW DID YOU LIKE THIS ARTICLE? CHOOSE YOUR EMOTICON!