India Wins The Champions Trophy in An Absolute Nail-Biter!
In an absolute nail-biter of a match, India defeated New Zealand by 4 Wickets to win the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
In a pulsating final at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on March 9, 2025, India clinched the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, defeating New Zealand by 4 wickets. Chasing 252, India finished at 254 for 6 in 49 overs, showcasing resilience and depth to claim their third title in the tournament’s history.
New Zealand, electing to bat first after winning the toss, posted 251 for 7 in their 50 overs. The innings began shakily with the early loss of opener Will Young, but a steady partnership between Rachin Ravindra and Daryl Mitchell provided stability. Mitchell top-scored with a gritty 63, while Michael Bracewell’s unbeaten 50 late in the innings lifted the total. India’s spinners dominated, with Kuldeep Yadav (2 wickets) and Varun Chakravarthy (2 wickets) strangling the middle order on a slow, turning pitch. Mohammed Shami chipped in with a wicket, though he proved expensive. Fielding lapses, including dropped catches, allowed New Zealand to push past 250.
India’s chase started with fireworks as Rohit Sharma (76 off 83) and Shubman Gill (31) raced to a 105-run opening stand. Rohit’s fluent strokeplay, including seven fours and three sixes, put India in control. However, New Zealand fought back with spin, as Mitchell Santner dismissed Gill and trapped Virat Kohli lbw for 1. Rohit’s departure, stumped off Ravindra, triggered a mini-collapse, leaving India at 136 for 3 after 30 overs. Shreyas Iyer (48) and Axar Patel (29) rebuilt with a 61-run stand, but Santner struck again, removing Iyer. With 61 needed off the last 10 overs, Hardik Pandya (18) and KL Rahul (11 not out) kept their cool. Ravindra Jadeja (9 not out) sealed the win with a boundary off Will O’Rourke in the 49th over.
Rohit’s leadership and Kuldeep’s guile earned praise, while New Zealand’s spirited effort fell just short. India’s 254/6 in 49 overs capped an unbeaten campaign, etching another glorious chapter in their Champions Trophy legacy.
