The Champions Trophy 2025 final between India and New Zealand at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium has been nothing short of a thriller. However, India’s sloppy fielding has been a major talking point, with multiple missed chances allowing the Kiwis to pile on runs.
Rohit Sharma’s Missed Opportunity
During the 35th over, Indian captain Rohit Sharma failed to latch onto a difficult catch at short mid-wicket. Daryl Mitchell got a crucial lifeline as the ball slipped through Rohit’s fingers despite his diving attempt. It was a tough chance, but in high-stakes games like these, every opportunity matters.
On the fifth ball of the 35th over, Mitchell attempted to target the large gap on the leg side with a short delivery from Axar Patel. He moved back into the crease and aimed to hit the ball over the midwicket fielder. Despite making good contact, he couldn’t quite achieve the needed elevation to clear Rohit Sharma.
— Mitch⚡ (@kaisanbaaaa) March 9, 2025
Shubman Gill’s Crucial Drop
Just an over later, vice-captain Shubman Gill dropped a sitter at deep square leg. Glenn Phillips, who had mistimed his slog sweep off Axar Patel’s delivery, was gifted another chance. Gill’s misjudgment added to India’s fielding woes and allowed New Zealand to keep building their innings.
India’s fielding went from bad to worse as they let four catches slip through their fingers in just ten deliveries. These errors kept New Zealand afloat at a time when wickets were crucial for India to gain control.
Kuldeep Yadav’s Costly Mistake
In the 37th over, Kuldeep Yadav missed a golden run-out opportunity. A direct throw at the non-striker’s end wasn’t backed up properly, costing India a clear chance to dismiss Michael Bracewell. This was the second time in the tournament that Kuldeep had made this mistake, frustrating both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.
To make matters worse, Ravindra Jadeja, one of India’s best fielders, attempted a direct hit but narrowly missed the stumps. Another chance to dismiss Bracewell went begging as India continued to let the pressure slip away.
Daryl Mitchell’s Resilience
While India’s fielding struggles continued, Daryl Mitchell capitalized on his luck and notched up a brilliant fifty. His ability to anchor the innings was vital for New Zealand in a high-pressure final. Mitchell built a strong 57-run partnership with Phillips, ensuring the BlackCaps stayed in contention for a competitive total. His ability to keep the scoreboard ticking despite early setbacks proved crucial.
Bowling Performance by India
Despite the fielding lapses, India’s bowlers did their best to pull things back. Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy picked up two wickets each, keeping New Zealand from running away with the game. Jadeja managed to break partnerships at key moments, adding another wicket to his name. His spin variations troubled the Kiwi batters, but India’s fielding mistakes overshadowed his performance.
New Zealand’s Fighting Total
Glenn Phillips, despite getting an extra life due to Gill’s drop, managed to add 34 runs before being bowled out by Chakravarthy in the 38th over. His contribution, though not massive, was instrumental in keeping New Zealand’s innings together.
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