India Defeats New Zealand to Secure Third Champions Trophy Title
India emerged victorious in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final, defeating New Zealand by four wickets in a thrilling encounter at Dubai International Stadium. With this win, India secured their third Champions Trophy title, reaffirming their dominance in world cricket.
Rohit Sharma Leads from the Front
Captain Rohit Sharma once again displayed his class, scoring a crucial 76 runs at the top of the order. His aggressive yet calculated approach provided India with a solid foundation in their chase of 252. Rohit’s leadership throughout the tournament played a vital role in India’s unbeaten run.
Spin Quartet Restricts New Zealand
India’s spinners played a pivotal role in restricting New Zealand to 251 for 7 in 50 overs. On a pitch that offered minimal turn, the spin attack of Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakravarthy, Axar Patel, and Ravindra Jadeja bowled a combined 38 overs, conceding only 144 runs and taking five wickets. Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy were the standout performers, picking up two wickets each.
Michael Bracewell’s Late Flourish Rescues New Zealand
New Zealand struggled against India’s disciplined bowling attack, but Michael Bracewell’s 53 off 40 balls provided them with a respectable total. Daryl Mitchell (63) and Glenn Phillips (34) also contributed valuable runs, but the Indian bowlers kept the scoring in check, ensuring New Zealand couldn’t accelerate in the middle overs.
India’s Chase: A Test of Depth and Composure
India got off to a flying start with Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill putting up a 105-run partnership. However, New Zealand spinners fought back, taking key wickets at crucial junctures. Shreyas Iyer (48) and KL Rahul (34*) steadied the innings after the fall of Rohit and Virat Kohli. Hardik Pandya’s quick 18 and Ravindra Jadeja’s composure ensured India crossed the finish line with four wickets in hand and one over to spare.
Rahul and Jadeja Seal Victory
KL Rahul played a composed knock, guiding India home under pressure. Jadeja’s experience and all-round abilities once again proved invaluable, as he remained unbeaten alongside Rahul, ensuring that India didn’t falter in the final moments of the chase.
India’s Unbeaten Streak Continues
This victory extended India’s unbeaten run in ICC tournaments, having won 22 out of their last 23 completed matches. They now hold two of the four ICC trophies, underlining their dominance in international cricket.
Rohit Sharma on India’s Success
After lifting the Champions Trophy, Rohit Sharma expressed his pride in the team’s performance: “This team has shown incredible character and consistency. Winning two major ICC tournaments back-to-back is a testament to our hard work and determination.”
New Zealand’s Fighting Spirit
Despite the loss, New Zealand captain Kane Williamson praised his team’s efforts: “We fought hard against a world-class Indian side. Our spinners bowled well, and Bracewell’s knock gave us hope, but India had the depth to see it through.”
A Tournament to Remember
The 2025 ICC Champions Trophy provided thrilling cricketing action, with India proving why they are the best in the world. With this victory, India cements its place as a powerhouse in the cricketing world, and fans eagerly await their next ICC triumph.
