Champions Once Again! India showcased resilience and class as they clinched the ICC Champions Trophy in Dubai, overcoming a determined New Zealand with a composed run chase.
By PC Bureau
Dubai witnessed a night of high drama as India secured their third ICC Champions Trophy title, defeating New Zealand by four wickets in a pulsating final. Chasing a target of 252, India reached the mark with just eight balls to spare, thanks to a composed half-century from captain Rohit Sharma and a crucial late flourish by Hardik Pandya.
New Zealand, after winning the toss and opting to bat first, managed to post a competitive total of 251 for 7 in 50 overs. Their innings was built around a gritty 63 from Daryl Mitchell and an unbeaten 53 from Michael Bracewell, who steadied the innings after India’s spinners threatened to derail their momentum. Rachin Ravindra’s 37 at the top provided a steady start, but regular breakthroughs kept New Zealand from accelerating. The spin duo of Kuldeep Yadav (2/44) and Ravindra Jadeja (1/38) proved effective in the middle overs, with Kuldeep picking up two crucial wickets.
India’s chase began with intent as Rohit Sharma led from the front with a fluent 72, setting the tone alongside Shubman Gill, who contributed 41. However, the game tightened after New Zealand’s pacers struck in the middle overs, with Tim Southee (3/52) and Lockie Ferguson (2/46) picking up key wickets to leave India wobbling at 178 for 5. Just as the match seemed to be slipping away, Hardik Pandya took charge, counterattacking with a brisk 47 off 38 balls*. Along with Ravindra Jadeja, he stitched together a vital stand that carried India over the line in the 49th over.
The victory sparked wild celebrations among Indian players and fans, with Rohit Sharma lifting the coveted trophy amid cheers. Speaking after the win, Sharma credited the team’s resilience and ability to stay composed under pressure. “It was a tough chase, but we believed in ourselves. Everyone contributed, and Hardik’s knock was outstanding,” he said.
India won the Champion Trophy 🔥
Well-done Team India pic.twitter.com/e2mk22OJtm— चीकू (@Nationalist_Leo) March 9, 2025
For New Zealand, it was another heartbreak in a major ICC final. Captain Kane Williamson admitted that they were 20-30 runs short but praised his team’s fighting spirit. “We fought hard, but credit to India for holding their nerves in the end,” he remarked.
With this triumph, India reaffirmed their dominance in world cricket, adding another silverware to their illustrious history. The night in Dubai belonged to the Men in Blue, whose composure and depth saw them emerge as champions once again.
Turning Points:
- India’s Spin Dominance: The effective spells by India’s spinners during New Zealand’s innings restricted the run flow and claimed crucial wickets, preventing a larger total.
- Rohit Sharma’s Leadership: Sharma’s aggressive batting provided a solid foundation for the chase, and his strategic on-field decisions showcased his leadership acumen.
- New Zealand’s Resilience: Despite the loss, New Zealand displayed commendable fighting spirit, with standout performances from Mitchell and Bracewell, and a disciplined bowling attack that kept the match competitive until the end.
Match Scorecard
New Zealand Innings: 251/7 (50 overs)
- Daryl Mitchell – 63 (82)
- Michael Bracewell – 53* (45)
- Rachin Ravindra – 37 (44)
- Kane Williamson – 28 (39)
- Finn Allen – 21 (17)
- Extras – 12
Bowling (India):
- Kuldeep Yadav – 2/44 (10)
- Jasprit Bumrah – 1/38 (10)
- Ravindra Jadeja – 1/38 (10)
- Mohammed Siraj – 1/45 (9)
- Hardik Pandya – 1/46 (9)
India Innings: 252/6 (48.4 overs)
- Rohit Sharma – 72 (84)
- Shubman Gill – 41 (53)
- Virat Kohli – 34 (42)
- KL Rahul – 29 (36)
- Hardik Pandya – 47* (38)
- Ravindra Jadeja – 23* (21)
- Extras – 6
Bowling (New Zealand):
- Tim Southee – 3/52 (10)
- Lockie Ferguson – 2/46 (9.4)
- Mitchell Santner – 1/41 (10)
- Trent Boult – 0/48 (10)
India’s triumph once again solidifies their position as one of the strongest teams in modern cricket, showcasing a perfect blend of experience and young talen
