India, March 3 -- Mystery spinner Varun Chakaravarthy vindicated his selection with a maiden five-wicket haul, which helped India beat New Zealand by 44 runs in a Group A clash between two sides that had already made the last four of the Champions Trophy. Even former India cricketer Sachin Tendulkar was blown away by Varun's bowling, but there was one other performance, that did not go unnoticed, but not for the India legend.

Electing to field, New Zealand restricted India to 249/9, with Matt Henry (5/42) leading their superb bowling display, which was backed up by their characteristic sharp catching.

In response from the Kiwi batters, New Zealand did back themselves for the win, especially amid a classy 81 from Kane Williamson. But the...