IND vs NZ: Shreyas Iyer creates history, matches Virat Kohli’s record

The last group-stage encounter of the Champions Trophy between New Zealand and India is in progress in Dubai. Team India was at one point in severe crisis, but Shreyas Iyer rose to the occasion with an exemplary half-century to guide the team to a decent score. His scintillating knock of 79 runs not only rescued India but also assisted him in equalling a record which was earlier held by Virat Kohli.

Iyer anchors India's innings amidst top-order collapse

Against a disciplined Kiwi bowling attack, Iyer played a pivotal role in pushing India's total to 250. With India's top order struggling—Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Shubman Gill all failing to make an impact—India lost three wickets within the first 50 runs. However, Iyer displayed remarkable composure and took charge of the innings.

Matching Kohli's record with a gritty performance

Shreyas Iyer's innings was a demonstration of class and resilience. He batted through 98 balls, hitting four boundaries and two sixes during his unbeaten 79 runs. Surprisingly, by this innings, he tied a record held by Virat Kohli for the top Indian No. 4 score in the Champions Trophy. Kohli had also not lost his wicket on 79 in the prevoius edition of the tournament, and now it was Iyer's turn to replicate the achievement under harrowing conditions in Dubai.

India scores 249, provides harsh test to bowlers

248 in the end now would feel like a winning score for the Indian team. Great contribution from Shreyas assisted in building up that score. New Zealand would be expected to chase down that total from a very bowler-friendly pitch, and the Indian bowlers have a tough task of defending that score against a formidable New Zealand team.

A nail-biter thus far, with everyone waiting to see how India's bowlers would perform under pressure.