India’s spinner Kuldeep Yadav provided a crucial breakthrough by dismantling the growing partnership between Daryl Mitchell and Kane Williamson in the 2025 Champions Trophy group-stage clash against New Zealand. The left-arm wrist spinner dismissed Mitchell for 17 runs at the Dubai International Stadium on Sunday, March 2.
Defending a target of 250, Team India had already picked up two wickets within the first hour of play. Will Young’s dismissal in the 12th over brought Mitchell to the crease. Returning to the XI in place of Devon Conway, the middle-order batter struggled against the spin duo operating in tandem.
Though New Zealand managed occasional boundaries, the constant pressure from the spinners caused the required run rate to climb. On the first ball of the 26th over, Daryl Mitchell anticipated a googly from Kuldeep Yadav, but the delivery turned into him.
Stretching out for a drive, he exposed his pads, and the ball spun back to hit them. Umpire Michael Gough immediately raised his finger, leading Mitchell to consult Williamson before opting for DRS. However, UltraEdge showed no spike, and ball tracking confirmed three reds, sealing his dismissal.
You can watch the video here:
https://x.com/starsportsindia/status/1896214025849249873?s=46
Daryl Mitchell struggled during his 35-ball innings, managing just one boundary. He had scored 10 runs in the tournament opener against Pakistan and was left out of the match against Bangladesh.
Kuldeep Yadav and Team India push for more wickets to tighten their grip on New Zealand
Daryl Mitchell and Kane Williamson’s third-wicket stand lasted nearly 14 overs, adding 44 runs. With Williamson settled and Tom Latham at the crease, New Zealand remain strong in the chase.
India aim to capitalize on their spin attack, with Varun Chakravarthy dismissing Will Young and Axar Patel delivering an extended spell from the powerplay. As of now, New Zealand are 122-3 after 29 overs, needing 128 runs from 126 balls to top Group A and maintain their unbeaten run.
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