India down NZ to set up Champions Trophy semi against Australia

India beat New Zealand in the final Champions Trophy pool match on Monday morning (AEDT), prevailing by 44 runs in Lahore to top Group A and set a semi-final against Australia.

It was a tight, low-scoring affair, with India batting first and struggling their way to 9/249.

New Zealand’s Matt Henry (5/42) was excellent with the ball, while Shreyas Iyer (79) top-scored for the men in blue.

In response, the tournament favourites put on a spin-bowling clinic, with Varun Chakravarthy (5/42) leading the charge as the Black Caps were dismissed for 205.

Kane Williamson (81) was the one shining light for the Kiwis with the bat, finding form after a shaky tournament so far.

The result means India will face Australia in Dubai in the first semi-final on Tuesday, while New Zealand will take on South Africa in Lahore in the second knockout match on Wednesday.

It also solidifies India’s odds of winning the 2025 Champions Trophy.

Leading cricket betting sites have shortened the world No.1 side to $2.30 to lift the trophy, ahead of Australia ($4), South Africa ($4.50) and New Zealand ($5).

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“Very important for us to finish on a high,” Indian captain Rohit Sharma said after the match.

“New Zealand are a good side, playing well in the recent past. 

“Varun has got something different, wanted to try and see what he had to offer. 

“We got to think a little about what to do for the next game, good headache. If he gets it right, very difficult to read him. 

“Momentum is critical in such a short game. We want to try and win every game, try and do everything right.

“Mistakes happen, but correcting that is important.”

Heading into Tuesday’s semi-final, Rohit is aware of the challenge he and his side now face against two-time winners Australia.

“It is going to be a good game,” he said.

“Australia have a rich history of playing well in ICC tournaments. 

“It’s about us doing things right. We have to be focused on what we need to do on that day. 

“Looking forward to that, hopefully we can stitch one towards us.”

Cricket bookmakers have India as $1.53 favourites to advance to the final, with Australia paying $2.50 to knock them out.

South Africa, meanwhile, are given the edge at $1.72 to beat New Zealand, who are returning $2.10 with BetOnline.

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