India etched its name in cricketing history once again by clinching the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, securing their third title in a thrilling final against New Zealand at the Dubai International Stadium. The Men in Blue displayed resilience, skill, and composure to chase down New Zealand’s 251-run target, sealing a four-wicket victory with an over to spare. This triumph adds to India’s previous Champions Trophy wins in 2002 (shared with Sri Lanka) and 2013, reaffirming their dominance in the tournament’s legacy.
New Zealand, on the other hand, put up a commendable fight, showcasing their trademark grit and determination. Batting first, they posted a competitive 251/7 in 50 overs, thanks to a solid knock from Daryl Mitchell (63 off 101 balls) and a late surge by *Michael Bracewell (53 off 40 balls)**. Despite losing early wickets, the Black Caps managed to steady their innings and set a challenging total for India. Their bowlers, led by Mitchell Santner (2/47) and Michael Bracewell (2/28), put pressure on India’s batting lineup, making the chase anything but easy.
However, India’s experienced campaigners stepped up when it mattered the most. Captain Rohit Sharma led from the front, smashing a brilliant 76 off 83 balls, while Shreyas Iyer (48) and KL Rahul (34)* played crucial supporting roles. A composed finish by Ravindra Jadeja (9)* ensured that India crossed the finish line in the 49th over, sending fans into celebration mode. With this victory, India not only lifted the prestigious ICC Champions Trophy once again but also cemented their reputation as one of the strongest teams in modern cricket.
Here are the key points and highlights:
- India Wins ICC Champions Trophy 2025!
India defeated New Zealand by 4 wickets in the final at Dubai International Stadium, securing their third ICC Champions Trophy title. - Final Score:
- New Zealand: 251-7 (50 overs)
- India: 254-6 (49 overs)
- Player of the Match: Rohit Sharma
The Indian captain led from the front, scoring 76 off 83 balls, smashing 7 fours and 3 sixes. His composed innings set the foundation for India’s successful chase. - Player of the Tournament: Rachin Ravindra
The young New Zealand all-rounder was outstanding throughout the tournament, contributing with both bat and ball. - Match-Winning Partnership:
- KL Rahul (34) and Ravindra Jadeja (9)** kept their nerves to guide India to victory in the final overs.
- Key Indian Performances:
- Shreyas Iyer: 48 off 62 balls (2 fours, 2 sixes)
- Axar Patel: 29 off 40 balls
- Hardik Pandya: 18 off 18 balls
- Top Indian Bowlers:
- Kuldeep Yadav: 2/40 (10 overs)
- Varun Chakravarthy: 2/45 (10 overs)
- Ravindra Jadeja: 1/30 (10 overs)
- New Zealand’s Top Performers:
- Daryl Mitchell: 63 off 101 balls
- Michael Bracewell: 53* off 40 balls
- Rachin Ravindra: 37 off 29 balls + 1/47 (10 overs)
- Turning Point of the Match:
Rohit Sharma’s attacking knock in the powerplay and India’s disciplined bowling in the middle overs proved decisive. - India’s Champions Trophy Journey:
With this victory, India lift its third ICC Champions Trophy, adding to its 2002 (shared) and 2013 triumphs.
A historic moment for Indian cricket as they reclaim the ICC Champions Trophy in a thrilling final!
Image courtesy – BCCI official X handle
