In a nail-biting finale at the Dubai International Stadium, India clinched the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 title by defeating New Zealand by 4 wickets. This historic win marks India’s third Champions Trophy victory and breaks a 37-year jinx against New Zealand in ICC finals.
New Zealand, after winning the toss, opted to bat first. Despite a shaky start, the Kiwis posted a respectable total of 251 runs, thanks to crucial contributions from Daryl Mitchell (63) and Michael Bracewell (50*). India’s spinners, led by Varun Chakravarthy (2/45) and Kuldeep Yadav (2/47), kept the Kiwi batters in check, while Mohammad Shami and Ravindra Jadeja chipped in with key wickets.
India’s chase began steadily, with Rohit Sharma leading the charge. The Indian captain scored a brilliant 76, setting the foundation for the innings. However, New Zealand fought back with timely wickets, including the dismissals of Virat Kohli (1) and Shreyas Iyer (48).
The match took a dramatic turn when Hardik Pandya (18) and KL Rahul (34*) steadied the ship. With 7 runs needed off the final over, Rahul sealed the victory with a boundary, sparking celebrations in the Indian camp.
Rohit’s aggressive 76 off 65 balls gave India a solid start. Kuldeep Yadav’s Double Strike removed Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson in quick succession, derailing New Zealand’s momentum.Michael Bracewell’s Fightback with his unbeaten 50 ensured New Zealand crossed the 250-run mark. KL Rahul’s calm presence in the final overs guided India to victory.
This victory is particularly special for India, as it marks their first win over New Zealand in an ICC final since 1988. Rohit Sharma became only the second Indian captain after MS Dhoni to win two ICC trophies.
Varun Chakravarthy was named Player of the Match for his crucial spell of 2/45, which included the wickets of Will Young and Glenn Phillips. With this win, India has cemented its dominance in world cricket.
Final Scorecard:
New Zealand:251/7 in 50 overs
(Daryl Mitchell 63, Michael Bracewell 50*; Varun Chakravarthy 2/45)
India:252/6 in 49.2 overs
(Rohit Sharma 76, KL Rahul 34*; Mitchell Santner 2/40)
-Sanyogita
