India has once again proven why they are a force to be reckoned with in world cricket by clinching the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. In a thrilling final at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, India defeated New Zealand by four wickets, successfully chasing down 252 runs in 49 overs. It was a night of redemption, dominance, and sheer brilliance from Rohit Sharma and his team.
New Zealand’s Strong Start but Stumbling Finish
New Zealand, after winning the toss, chose to bat first, hoping to put up a formidable total in the high-pressure final. Their openers, Will Young and Rachin Ravindra, got off to a steady start, with Ravindra scoring a quick 37 off 29 balls. Kane Williamson added 11 runs before falling early, leaving the middle order with the responsibility to stabilize the innings.
Daryl Mitchell played a crucial role in holding the innings together with a well-fought 63 off 101 balls. Glenn Phillips chipped in with 34 runs, but it was Michael Bracewell who gave New Zealand the much-needed boost in the death overs. His unbeaten 53 off just 40 balls ensured they reached a respectable total of 251 for 7 in 50 overs.
India’s bowling attack remained disciplined throughout the innings. Varun Chakaravarthy and Kuldeep Yadav took two wickets each, while Ravindra Jadeja, Shami, and Hardik Pandya played their roles effectively in restricting New Zealand from running away with the game.
Rohit Sharma Leads India’s Chase with Authority
India’s chase began confidently, with captain Rohit Sharma setting the tone from the start. His aggressive yet controlled 76 off 83 balls provided the perfect platform for the middle order. Shubman Gill played a steady knock of 31 before falling, while Virat Kohli was dismissed cheaply for just one run.
Shreyas Iyer stepped up when it mattered the most, scoring 48 off 62 balls and forming crucial partnerships to keep India on track. Axar Patel added valuable runs with his 29 off 40 deliveries, while KL Rahul remained unbeaten on 34, guiding India to victory in the final moments. Hardik Pandya also played a small but impactful cameo, scoring 18 runs to ease the pressure towards the end.
New Zealand’s bowlers tried to make things difficult, with Michael Bracewell being the pick of the lot, taking two wickets for just 28 runs in his 10 overs. Rachin Ravindra and Kyle Jamieson also took important wickets, but India’s batting depth ensured they crossed the finish line with an over to spare.
A Long-Awaited Victory for India
This victory is not just about winning another ICC trophy; it is about redemption, proving a point, and reclaiming India’s dominance in world cricket. Rohit Sharma’s leadership, the team’s all-round performance, and their ability to handle pressure in a final have made this win even sweeter.
With this victory, India has once again lifted an ICC trophy, putting behind years of heartbreaks and near misses. The celebrations have already begun, and this moment will be etched in the memories of Indian cricket fans forever.
