Kuldeep Yadav’s Double Strike Rocks New Zealand in Champions Trophy 2025 Final
Kuldeep Yadav delivered a game-changing spell in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy final against New Zealand on Sunday, March 9, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. The left-arm wrist spinner dismissed Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson in successive overs, shifting the momentum in India’s favor during the high-stakes clash.
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India Strikes Back After New Zealand’s Flying Start
After winning the toss, New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner opted to bat first on a batting-friendly Dubai pitch. The Kiwi openers, Will Young and Rachin Ravindra, provided a strong start, adding 57 runs off just 47 balls. They took advantage of the powerplay, capitalizing on loose deliveries and punishing the Indian bowlers with crisp boundaries.
Despite the aggressive start, India remained patient. Their breakthrough came when Varun Chakaravarthy, brought into the attack early, dismissed Will Young. The dismissal halted New Zealand’s blistering start but did not deter Ravindra, who looked in sublime touch. The left-hander, who had scored a century in the semi-final against South Africa, was dropped twice and made India pay by continuing his aggressive approach.
Kuldeep Yadav Strikes With His First Ball
With Ravindra growing in confidence, India captain Rohit Sharma made a tactical move by introducing Kuldeep Yadav in the 11th over. The decision paid immediate dividends as Kuldeep struck with his very first delivery.
The 29-year-old delivered a perfectly disguised googly, targeting the middle stump. Ravindra, stuck on the back foot, failed to read the variation. The ball sneaked past his inside edge, kissed his pad, and crashed into the stumps.
Kuldeep’s reaction was one of pure delight, knowing he had removed a dangerous batter. His teammates joined in celebration, aware of the wicket’s significance. Meanwhile, Ravindra, who had looked set for a big score, walked back dejected after scoring 37 off 29 balls.
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Kane Williamson’s Soft Dismissal in the Next Over
With Ravindra back in the pavilion, India sensed an opportunity to put more pressure on New Zealand. In his very next over, Kuldeep dismissed Kiwi captain Kane Williamson, a player known for his composure and ability to anchor innings.
Kuldeep bowled a full-length delivery on the middle stump, tempting Williamson into a drive. The right-hander attempted to push the ball for a single but failed to keep it down. The ball lobbed back to Kuldeep, who completed the easiest of return catches.
It was a soft dismissal, but a crucial one, as Williamson’s wicket left New Zealand reeling at 75/3 after their strong start.
Watch Kane Williamson’s Dismissal Below:
Kuldeep Yadav’s Redemption in the Final
Heading into the final, Kuldeep had not been among the leading wicket-takers of the tournament. In four matches, he had managed to pick up just five wickets, struggling to find his rhythm on pitches that did not offer much turn.
However, in the most crucial match of the tournament, he rediscovered his best form. His spell against New Zealand demonstrated his ability to deliver in high-pressure situations, making an impact when India needed it the most.
The Importance of Kuldeep’s Wickets
Kuldeep’s double blow turned the tide in India’s favor. At 57/0, New Zealand looked set for a big total, with Ravindra and Williamson threatening to take the game away. However, in just two overs, Kuldeep removed both key batters, exposing New Zealand’s middle order.
His breakthroughs also allowed other Indian bowlers, including Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Ravindra Jadeja, to bowl with more attacking fields. The pressure of losing two key wickets meant that New Zealand’s run rate dropped, giving India a much-needed advantage.
New Zealand’s Struggle After Kuldeep’s Strikes
After Williamson’s dismissal, New Zealand’s middle-order batters found it difficult to score freely.
The Indian spinners tightened their grip, and the Dubai pitch, which had looked good for batting early on, started assisting slow bowlers.
With Daryl Mitchell and Tom Latham at the crease, the Kiwis attempted to rebuild. However, India’s sharp field placements and disciplined bowling ensured they never got easy runs.
Kuldeep Yadav’s Influence on the Game
Kuldeep’s spell not only changed the momentum but also lifted India’s energy levels on the field. His ability to deceive batters with his variations made scoring against him difficult.
His performance in the final reaffirmed why he remains one of India’s most effective spinners in white-ball cricket. His knack for taking crucial wickets in pressure situations has been a hallmark of his career, and he delivered once again on the biggest stage.
Can India Capitalize on Kuldeep’s Breakthroughs?
With New Zealand under pressure, India’s bowlers will aim to capitalize and restrict the Black Caps to a manageable total. If the Indian batters chase well, they could secure their second ICC Champions Trophy title, having last won the tournament in 2013.
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Conclusion
Kuldeep Yadav’s double strike in consecutive overs changed the complexion of the 2025 Champions Trophy final. By dismissing Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson, he broke New Zealand’s momentum and handed India a crucial advantage.
As the game progresses, India will look to build on this breakthrough, while New Zealand will hope their remaining batters can fight back. With high stakes and a prestigious trophy on the line, the final promises to be a thrilling contest.
