India once again etched their name in the history books by winning the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, securing their third title with a thrilling four-wicket victory over New Zealand. The high-stakes final at Dubai International Cricket Stadium saw India chase down a target of 252 in 49 overs, displaying resilience and composure against a formidable Blackcaps side. This win marks another golden chapter in Indian cricket, following their joint victory in 2002 and a triumphant run in 2013.
A Hard-Fought Victory in a High-Pressure Final
Opting to bat first, New Zealand managed to post a competitive total of 251/7 in their allotted 50 overs. Despite a strong start by the Blackcaps, India’s spinners took control of the game and ensured the opposition didn’t run away with the match. Kuldeep Yadav (2/40) and Varun Chakravarthy (2/45) led the spin attack, while Ravindra Jadeja and Mohammed Shami chipped in with crucial wickets. Daryl Mitchell (63) and Michael Bracewell (53) were the standout performers for New Zealand, anchoring the innings with crucial partnerships.
Early in the innings, Rachin Ravindra set the tone for New Zealand with aggressive stroke play, punishing the Indian pacers. Hardik Pandya and Mohammed Shami were taken to task before India’s spinners turned the momentum. Kuldeep’s wrong’un dismissed Ravindra, and the wickets kept tumbling as India applied pressure. Mitchell held the innings together with a fighting fifty, but New Zealand couldn’t accelerate in the death overs, managing just 35 runs in the final three.
Rohit Sharma’s Explosive Start Sets the Tone
Chasing 252 on a tricky surface, India needed a strong start, and captain Rohit Sharma led from the front. The Indian skipper unleashed a barrage of strokes, scoring a brilliant 76 off 63 balls. His partnership with Shubman Gill (33) gave India a commanding start, adding 105 runs for the first wicket. Rohit’s aggressive play put the New Zealand pacers under pressure early, forcing Mitchell Santner to introduce spin into the attack.
New Zealand struck back with quick wickets, as Santner removed Gill, and Michael Bracewell trapped Virat Kohli LBW for just 1. Rohit, who was well set, attempted an attacking shot against Rachin Ravindra but was stumped, leaving India at 122/3. At this stage, the game was finely poised, with New Zealand sensing an opportunity to tighten their grip on the match.
Middle-Order Stability and Late Flourish
Shreyas Iyer (48) and Axar Patel (28) steadied the innings with a composed 62-run stand, mixing caution with aggression. Iyer had a stroke of luck when Will Young stepped on the boundary while attempting a stunning catch, gifting him a crucial lifeline. However, his luck ran out as he fell to Santner, bringing KL Rahul to the crease.
With 48 needed off 48 balls, the match was still in the balance. Hardik Pandya played a useful cameo (18 off 18), keeping India in the hunt before falling to Kyle Jamieson. Rahul (34 not out) and Ravindra Jadeja (12 not out) ensured there were no further hiccups, sealing the win with some smart batting. Jadeja’s composure under pressure proved crucial as India crossed the finish line in the 49th over.
A Victory to Cherish
This victory reinforces India’s dominance in ICC tournaments, adding a seventh ICC senior title to their illustrious cabinet. Rohit Sharma’s leadership, coupled with a balanced team effort from both batters and bowlers, ensured India remained unbeaten throughout the tournament. The bowlers, especially the spinners, played a crucial role in restricting New Zealand, while the batters held their nerve in the chase.
With this historic win, India has once again shown why they are a cricketing powerhouse. The triumph will be celebrated by fans across the globe, marking yet another proud moment in the annals of Indian cricket history. Congratulations to Team India on their remarkable ICC Champions Trophy 2025 victory!