Photo Courtesy:icc-cricket.com
March 11 2025 – Dubai
In a pulsating final at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, India emerged victorious over New Zealand by four wickets to win the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The Black Caps had set a challenging total of 251/7 in their 50 overs, led by Daryl Mitchell’s gritty 63 and an unbeaten 53 from Michael Bracewell. Despite a late surge from the Kiwis – who added 50 runs in the final five overs – India’s spinners kept the pressure on, restricting New Zealand’s middle order to a sub-par run rate during the crucial middle overs.
New Zealand’s innings was punctuated by early breakthroughs from Indian pacers and spinners alike. Varun Chakaravarthy struck early by dismissing opener Will Young lbw in the eighth over, while Ravindra Jadeja bowled Tom Latham for 14. The Black Caps, missing key player like injured Matt Henry, managed to post a competitive total through a late-fire display. Glenn Phillips, known for his electric fielding, took a spectacular catch to remove Shubman Gill for 31, and Mitchell Santner’s bowling contributed to further setbacks for the Kiwis.
India began their chase in high spirits, with openers Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill putting together an impressive 105-run partnership. However, the Indian innings experienced moments of uncertainty when Gill was dismissed and Virat Kohli departed for just 1 run. Rohit Sharma, who had played a pivotal role with a brisk 76, also fell shortly thereafter. With the score at 122/3 after 26 overs, India required 130 more runs from the remaining 24 overs.
Photo Courtesy:livemint.com
The match eventually swung in India’s favor as Shreyas Iyer (48), KL Rahul (34*), H Pandya (18) and Ravindra Jadeja (9*) guided the chase to a thrilling finish, sealing the title with one over to spare. This win not only reinforces India’s dominant form throughout the tournament but also won the third Champions Trophy title.
