The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 hosted yet another riveting encounter as New Zealand faced off against India in the 12th match of Group A at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
High stakes and intense emotions were in play as fans settled in for what was anticipated to be a fiercely contested ODI. However, the first innings of the match took a sensational turn during the sixth over when New Zealand’s Glenn Phillips pulled off a breathtaking catch to dismiss none other than Virat Kohli, sending shockwaves through the stadium and eliciting a priceless reaction from Kohli’s wife, Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma, in the stands.
Glenn Phillips’ gravity-defying catch
The drama unfolded after New Zealand won the toss and elected to bowl first. Under pressure, India looked to their batting talisman Kohli to stabilize the innings. This, however, was not to be, as New Zealand’s Matt Henry delivered a ball destined to be memorable. Kohli, on 11 from 14 deliveries, attempted a hard cut shot aimed squarely towards the boundary, only to witness Phillips, stationed at backward point, take flight.
Described live by commentators as something out of this world, Phillips’ catch was a testament to the fielding prowess associated with modern-day cricket. As Henry’s ball screamed off Kohli’s bat towards Phillips, the fielder executed a split-second dive to his right. Phillips’ fully horizontal, airborne dive, coupled with a sure-handed grab, left the Indian-heavy crowd in absolute disbelief. The sheer agility and athletic ability required to secure such a catch left cricket fans and pundits labelling it as potentially superior to previous stunning grabs made by Phillips, including his noted catch against Pakistan.
Here’s the video:
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Anushka Sharma’s reactions
The look of disbelief on Kohli’s face following the catch was etched in the memories of both players and fans alike. Anushka, present in the stands to support her husband, was captured with an expression reflecting the shock and amazement felt by many Indian fans present. The reaction was quick to go viral, perfectly encapsulating the moment’s emotional impact.
Anushka Sharma was all of us when Virat Kohli was dismissed on a stunning catch by Glenn Phillips, that was simply crazy from Phillips. 🔥#ViratKohli #INDvNZ #NZvIND #ChampionsTrophy #ChampionsTrophy2025 pic.twitter.com/UIFd6kYA3k
— Saabir Zafar (@Saabir_Saabu01) March 2, 2025
Meanwhile, Matt Henry – whose delivery facilitated this inspiring wicket – has been a significant performer for New Zealand, especially in the powerplay segments of ODIs. With an impeccable record of 10 wickets in 48 overs and a bowling average of 20.20, Henry’s dismissal of Kohli reinforced his reputation as a formidable bowler.