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Axar Patel Delivers a Pivotal Moment in India’s Favor
In a game-changing moment, Axar Patel struck a decisive blow for India by dismissing former New Zealand captain Kane Williamson, effectively breaking the backbone of their chase. The crucial wicket came on the final delivery of Axar’s spell, showcasing his anticipation and execution under pressure.
Axar Patel Removes Kane Williamson, Crushing New Zealand’s Hopes
Williamson, who had been anchoring the innings with a patient 81 off 120 balls, attempted to accelerate by charging down the track to a tossed-up delivery from Axar. However, the left-arm spinner outsmarted the Kiwi skipper, delivering an arm ball that skidded past Williamson’s bat.
KL Rahul collected the ball cleanly behind the stumps and, unlike previous missed opportunities, took his time to whip off the bails, leaving Williamson with no chance to recover. Without even looking back, the New Zealand captain walked off, acknowledging the gravity of his dismissal. His 81-run knock, studded with seven boundaries, had kept New Zealand in contention, but his departure at 169/7 left the team in dire straits.
Axar, who had been economical throughout his spell, finished with impressive figures of 1/32 in 10 overs. His lone wicket proved invaluable, derailing New Zealand’s chase and exposing their lower order to India’s formidable bowling attack. As Axar celebrated with his teammates, it became clear that this wicket had brought India one step closer to victory.
Watch the Moment Here
Kane Williamson is beaten all ends up in flight by Axar Patel for a simple stumping for KL Rahul. The Kiwis in deep trouble. #INDvNZ #ChampionsTrophy2025 pic.twitter.com/hc9xPn9wL8
— PTV Sports (@PTVSp0rts) March 2, 2025
Also WATCH: Kane Williamson’s Stunning One-Handed Catch Stuns India in the Champions Trophy 2025
India Tightens Grip as New Zealand Struggles
In the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Group A match, India has taken firm control as New Zealand falter in their chase of 250 at the Dubai International Stadium. After being asked to bat first, India posted 249/9 in 50 overs, with Shreyas Iyer leading the charge with a composed 79 off 98 balls. Contributions from Axar Patel (42) and Hardik Pandya (45) bolstered the total. For New Zealand, Matt Henry starred with the ball, claiming five wickets for 42 runs, supported by Mitchell Santner and Kyle Jamieson, who picked up a wicket each.
Chasing the target, New Zealand struggled early as Varun Chakravarthy dismissed Will Young and Glenn Phillips. Hardik Pandya and Kuldeep Yadav also chipped in with crucial wickets. Williamson’s valiant 81 kept New Zealand afloat, but his dismissal to Axar in the 41st over left them reeling at 169/7. With only Santner and the tailenders remaining, the required run rate has soared to 9.42 per over, making India strong favorites to clinch the match. With 66 runs needed off 42 balls, New Zealand’s hopes are dangling by a thread.
Also READ: IND vs NZ – Here’s Why Harshit Rana Is Not Playing Today’s Champions Trophy 2025 Match
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