India’s all-rounder Axar Patel produced a moment of brilliance to dismiss New Zealand’s opener Rachin Ravindra in their final group-stage clash of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. The 31-year-old Patel pulled off a sensational diving catch that left Hardik Pandya ecstatic, as India struck early in defence of their 250-run target.
New Zealand’s chase got off to a shaky start, losing their first wicket in the fourth over at just 17 runs. The in-form Rachin Ravindra, who had previously made history as the first player to score a century on both his World Cup and Champions Trophy debut, failed to make an impact, managing only 6 off 12 balls before falling to Hardik Pandya.
WATCH – Hardik Pandya Launches A Towering Six Off Michael Bracewell
On the final delivery of the fourth over, Hardik bowled a shortish ball, prompting Ravindra to go for an uppercut. However, he mistimed the shot, and the ball went high rather than far. Axar Patel, positioned at third man, sprinted forward, dove perfectly, and grabbed an absolute blinder. Despite his elbows slamming onto the ground, he held on, sending the Indian team into celebration. Hardik, visibly thrilled, clapped like an excited child, acknowledging the stunning effort.
Hardik Pandya Claims Ravindra’s Wicket, Assisted by Axar Patel’s Screamer! 👏
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This high-intensity encounter brought back memories of India and New Zealand’s only previous Champions Trophy clash—the 2000 final in Nairobi. That match remains one of the most thrilling finals in ICC history, as New Zealand claimed their maiden ICC trophy in a dramatic chase.
India, after a flying start, posted 264/6 in 50 overs, thanks to a 141-run opening stand between Sourav Ganguly (117) and Sachin Tendulkar (69). However, frequent wickets in the middle order prevented them from capitalizing on the strong foundation.
WATCH – Hardik Pandya Launches A Towering Six Off Michael Bracewell
New Zealand stumbled early in the chase, with India in control at 132/5. But Chris Cairns, battling a knee injury, played one of the most iconic innings in New Zealand’s cricket history. His unbeaten 102 off 113 balls, supported by Chris Harris (46), turned the game around. The duo’s 122-run partnership for the sixth wicket changed the course of the match. With 15 needed off the last two overs, Cairns kept his composure and sealed a four-wicket victory for New Zealand with just two balls to spare, etching his name in Champions Trophy history.
