India Clinches Third Champions Trophy Title in Thrilling Final

In a pulsating final at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on March 9, 2025, the Indian men's cricket team emerged victorious over New Zealand by four wickets, clinching their third ICC Champions Trophy title. In a contest defined by brilliant spin and determined batting, India chased down a challenging target of 252 in just 49 overs.

A Nerve-Wracking Chase

New Zealand set a competitive total of 251/7 in their 50 overs, thanks to resilient innings from Daryl Mitchell (63) and a fighting fifty from Michael Bracewell (53 off 40). However, India’s reply was characterized by a disciplined and dynamic batting display. The chase got underway with Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill laying a solid foundation with a crucial opening partnership that amassed 105 runs. Though the Kiwis’ bowlers kept the scoring tight in the middle overs, India’s batsmen maintained composure under pressure.

Rohit Sharma’s Leadership on Full Display

Captain Rohit Sharma, who scored 76 off 83 balls, was instrumental in guiding his team to victory. His ability to adapt to the conditions—coupled with his aggressive yet measured strokeplay—proved pivotal. Speaking after the match, Sharma dismissed retirement rumours, asserting his commitment to the ODI format and emphasizing that “what’s happening will keep on happening” as long as the team continues to deliver.

The Spin Quartet’s Masterclass

India’s spinners were the architects of their success. On a pitch that offered only minimal turn, the four-man spin attack—Varun Chakravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, and Ravindra Jadeja—bowled 38 overs for just 144 runs, dismantling New Zealand’s middle order. In particular, Kuldeep’s well-disguised variations and Varun’s precise line and length not only picked crucial wickets but also stifled the Kiwis’ run flow during the middle overs. “Our spinners never disappointed,” noted captain Rohit, highlighting how their disciplined bowling was a game changer throughout the tournament.

A Tournament of Unyielding Quality

India’s win in the final capped off an exceptional run in global white-ball tournaments. Having lost only one match in their last 23 ICC contests, the Men in Blue reinforced their status as one of the most formidable teams in the shorter formats of the game. With this title, India joins an elite group of sides that have consistently dominated ICC events in recent years.

Key Moments and Aftermath

• Early Partnership: The 105-run stand between Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill set the tone for the chase.
• Spin Dominance: The quartet’s tight bowling in the middle overs restricted New Zealand to a below-par run rate.
• Clutch Finishing: Despite some late wickets falling, steady contributions from KL Rahul (34*), Shreyas Iyer (48), and a composed cameo from Ravindra Jadeja ensured that India reached the target with an over to spare.

New Zealand, despite their spirited performance and valiant fight under the leadership of Mitchell Santner, eventually fell short as India’s superior balance of batting and bowling proved decisive.

Looking Ahead

The final not only marked a memorable triumph for India but also sparked debate over the perceived advantages of hosting all matches at a neutral venue. Nevertheless, the on-field performance dispelled any doubts about India’s ability to succeed under pressure. With their eyes set on further success, the Indian team now celebrates a historic victory that adds yet another illustrious chapter to their cricketing legacy.