By Staff Correspondent Blake Anderson
Dubai – Under the lights of the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, cricket fans across the globe were treated to a spectacle of class, grit, and high drama as the India National Cricket Team edged past the New Zealand National Cricket Team by four wickets to secure the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy title. The final, held on March 9, delivered a fitting end to a thrilling tournament, with India showcasing their dominance and composure under pressure.
A Match Built on Strategy and Nerve
Batting first, New Zealand posted a competitive total of 251 for 7 in their allotted 50 overs. Daryl Mitchell, the seasoned middle-order batsman, held the innings together with a measured 63 from 101 balls. He was well-supported by Michael Bracewell, who provided much-needed acceleration with an unbeaten 53 off just 40 deliveries. Young sensation Rachin Ravindra gave New Zealand an aggressive start, striking a brisk 37 that set the tone in the powerplay.
India’s bowling unit, however, kept the Kiwis in check throughout. Kuldeep Yadav’s tight spell of 2 for 40 in 10 overs demonstrated why he is among the most reliable spinners in world cricket. Varun Chakravarthy’s variations earned him two key wickets in the middle overs, preventing New Zealand from building unstoppable momentum.
India’s Calm and Clinical Chase
India’s response with the bat was led by their ever-dependable skipper, Rohit Sharma, whose fluent 76 off 83 balls laid the foundation for the chase. Displaying a mix of aggression and elegance, Sharma punished anything short and was especially commanding through cover and mid-wicket. After a brief wobble, including the quick loss of Virat Kohli for just one run, India stabilized through Shreyas Iyer (48) and a determined Axar Patel (29).
The finishing touch came from wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul, who once again proved his mettle in high-pressure situations. His unbeaten 34 from 33 balls, featuring a six and a late flurry of singles, took India over the line with nine balls remaining. Despite tight spells from Michael Bracewell (2/28) and Mitchell Santner (2/46), India timed their chase with clinical precision.
Scorecard Summary
New Zealand – 251/7 (50 overs)
- Daryl Mitchell – 63 (101)
- Michael Bracewell – 53* (40)
- Kuldeep Yadav – 2/40
- Varun Chakravarthy – 2/45
India – 254/6 (49 overs)
- Rohit Sharma – 76 (83)
- Shreyas Iyer – 48 (62)
- KL Rahul – 34* (33)
- Bracewell & Santner – 2 wickets each
A Historic Victory
This victory not only handed India its third ICC Champions Trophy title but also reinforced the squad’s depth and adaptability. It was a tournament that saw different match-winners in each game — from Shubman Gill’s earlier heroics to Shami’s blistering pace spells. But in the final, it was Rohit Sharma’s leadership and composure that took center stage.
Looking Forward
While India celebrates another glittering addition to their trophy cabinet, New Zealand can hold their heads high. They were competitive throughout the competition and will look to carry this momentum into the next cycle of international fixtures. For now, though, it’s India who stand tall — champions once more, and deserving ones at that.
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