India secured a commanding 44-run triumph over New Zealand on Sunday, finishing atop Group A in the ongoing Champions Trophy. With this victory, the side set up a high-stakes semifinal clash against Australia on Tuesday, while New Zealand will take on South Africa in Lahore on Wednesday.

Shreyas Iyer anchored India’s innings with a composed 79 off 98 balls, while Hardik Pandya (45) and Axar Patel (42) made vital contributions. New Zealand captain Kane Williamson kept his side in contention with a classy 81, but the Black Caps faltered, getting bowled out for 205 in 45.3 overs. Varun Chakravarthy was the standout performer with the ball, delivering a match-winning spell of 5/42 in 10 overs.