India Triumphs Over New Zealand to Secure ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Title
In a thrilling final at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, India clinched their third ICC Champions Trophy title with a hard-fought victory over New Zealand. The Men in Blue showcased their dominance, remaining unbeaten throughout the tournament and securing the coveted trophy with a four-wicket win.
India’s Journey to the Title
India’s campaign in the Champions Trophy 2025 was nothing short of spectacular. They dominated the group stage, defeating Bangladesh, Pakistan, and New Zealand before overcoming Australia in the semi-final. In the grand finale, they once again outclassed the Kiwis to lift the trophy, adding to their previous wins in 2002 and 2013.
India vs New Zealand: Key Moments from the Final
The final witnessed a thrilling run chase as India successfully pursued a target of 252 runs set by New Zealand. Rohit Sharma led from the front with a crucial half-century, while KL Rahul and Axar Patel played vital roles in steering India towards victory.
- Rohit Sharma’s Captain’s Knock: The Indian skipper delivered a stellar performance, scoring 76 runs off 83 balls, including seven boundaries and three sixes. This was his first-ever fifty in an ICC event final, setting the tone for India’s chase.
- Virat Kohli’s Struggles Continue: Star batter Virat Kohli failed to make an impact, managing to score just one run. His record in ICC ODI finals now stands at 138 runs across five matches, with an average of 27.60.
- Dynamic Opening Partnership: Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill recreated the legendary opening stand of Sachin Tendulkar and Sourav Ganguly from 2000, stitching a 100-plus partnership in the final.
- Middle-Order Stability: Despite losing wickets, Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul anchored India’s innings. Iyer, alongside Axar Patel, ensured steady progress, taking India past the 150-run mark in 32.5 overs.
- Rahul & Axar’s Crucial Partnership: Their composed batting helped India cross the 200-run milestone in 40.5 overs, keeping the chase on track.
- Hardik Pandya’s Finishing Brilliance: With India needing 32 runs in the final five overs, Hardik Pandya played a key role in ensuring a smooth finish. His aggressive batting, combined with KL Rahul’s composure, brought India closer to victory.
- Jadeja Seals the Win: Ravindra Jadeja smashed the winning boundary, sparking jubilant celebrations among Indian players and fans.
A Memorable Triumph for Team India
This triumph marks India’s sixth consecutive victory in the tournament, reinforcing their supremacy in global cricket. Rohit Sharma’s squad demonstrated remarkable consistency, resilience, and teamwork throughout the competition.
Celebrations and Reactions
Following the win, the Indian team erupted in celebrations, with Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli engaging in a playful ‘dandiya’ celebration using the stumps. Fans worldwide rejoiced as India lifted yet another ICC trophy, adding a glorious chapter to their cricketing history.
With this victory, India has once again proven itself as a dominant force in world cricket, leaving fans eagerly anticipating their future performances on the international stage.
