March 9. 2025 – In a thrilling finale at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium India emerged victorious over New Zealand by four wickets securing their third ICC Champions Trophy title This win not only underscores India’s dominance in white-ball cricket but also highlights their remarkable consistency in global tournaments having won 23 of their last 24 matches.
The Road to the Final
India’s Journey
India commenced their Champions Trophy campaign with a commanding victory over Bangladesh followed by a six-wicket win against arch-rivals Pakistan They continued their dominance by defeating New Zealand by 44 runs in the group stage finishing as the winners of Group A In the semi-finals India showcased their prowess by overcoming Australia earning their place in the Champions Trophy final for a record fifth time after appearances in 2000. 2002. 2013 and 2017.
New Zealand’s Path
New Zealand’s journey to the final was marked by resilience and strategic brilliance They navigated through a competitive group stage and showcased their mettle in the knockout phases setting up a much-anticipated clash with India in the final
The Grand Finale: Match Overview
Toss and Pitch Conditions
New Zealand’s captain, Mitchell Santner won the toss and elected to bat first a decision influenced by the traditionally batting-friendly nature of the Dubai pitch The surface was expected to offer consistent bounce and carry making it conducive for stroke play However as the match progressed it became evident that the pitch also provided assistance to the spinners adding an intriguing dimension to the contest
New Zealand’s Innings: 251/7 in 50 Overs
New Zealand began their innings with cautious optimism The opening pair aimed to lay a solid foundation but found it challenging to accelerate against India’s disciplined bowling attack
Key Contributions:
Daryl Mitchell: Anchored the innings with a well-compiled 63 runs off 78 balls exhibiting patience and technique
Michael Bracewell: Provided a late surge with an unbeaten 53 runs off 47 balls ensuring New Zealand posted a competitive total
Indian Bowling Highlights:
Kuldeep Yadav: The left-arm wrist-spinner was instrumental claiming 2 wickets for 41 runs in his 10-over spell effectively stifling the middle order
Varun Chakravarthy: His mystery spin yielded 1 wicket for 38 runs adding pressure during the middle overs
Jasprit Bumrah: The pace spearhead maintained tight lines finishing with figures of 2 wickets for 45 runs
New Zealand concluded their innings at 251/7. a total that was competitive yet attainable on the Dubai surface
India’s Chase: 252/6 in 49 Overs
Chasing 252, India aimed for a steady start to build a platform for the middle order The openers responded with intent and composure
Batting Performances:
Rohit Sharma: The captain led from the front with a sublime 76 runs off 92 balls including 8 boundaries and 2 sixes, setting the tone for the chase
Virat Kohli: Contributed a valuable 45 runs off 52 balls stabilizing the innings during a crucial phase
KL Rahul: Remained unbeaten on 34 runs off 39 balls guiding India to victory with a composed approach
New Zealand Bowling Efforts:
Trent Boult: The left-arm pacer struck early blows, ending with figures of 2 wickets for 52 runs
Ish Sodhi: The leg-spinner posed challenges in the middle overs claiming 2 wickets for 48 runs
India achieved the target in 49 overs securing a four-wicket victory and their third Champions Trophy title
Turning Points of the Match
1. Kuldeep Yadav’s Impactful Spell: His dismissal of key middle order batsmen curtailed New Zealand’s momentum during their innings
2. Rohit Sharma’s Captain’s Knock: His innings provided stability and confidence anchoring the chase effectively
3. KL Rahul’s Finishing Role: His calm demeanor under pressure ensured India crossed the finish line without further hiccups
Post-Match Reflections
Rohit Sharma (India’s Captain)
Our bowlers, especially the spinners were exceptional today They executed our plans perfectly restricting New Zealand to a manageable total The batsmen complemented the effort and it’s a proud moment for Indian cricket
Mitchell Santner (New Zealand’s Captain)
We felt we were 20 runs short and credit to India’s bowlers for keeping us in check Despite the loss I’m proud of the team’s efforts throughout the tournament
Statistical Highlights
India’s Third Champions Trophy Title: With this win, India has now clinched the Champions Trophy thrice, reinforcing their stature in ODI cricket.
Consistency in ICC Tournaments: India’s remarkable record of winning 23 out of their last 24 global tournament matches underscores their dominance in the international arena.
The Spin Factor: India’s Trump Card
A significant aspect of India’s strategy in the final was their reliance on a quartet of spinners: Kuldeep Yadav Varun Chakravarthy Axar Patel and Ravindra Jadeja This spin heavy
attack proved effective on the Dubai pitch which offered turn and bounce.
Kuldeep Yadav: