India Triumphs in a Nail-Biting Final
India emerged victorious in a thrilling Champions Trophy 2025 final against New Zealand, winning by four wickets in a tense chase at the Dubai International Stadium. The match saw incredible performances from Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, and Ravindra Jadeja, who guided India to glory.
Jadeja struck the winning runs with a boundary, sparking wild celebrations as fireworks lit up the night sky. The Indian team rushed onto the field to embrace their heroes, marking a memorable moment in the nation’s cricketing history.
India’s Chase: A Rollercoaster Ride
Chasing 252 for victory, India had a dream start with Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill putting up a 100-run partnership in just 17 overs. Rohit, leading from the front, smashed a 41-ball half-century and kept the scoreboard ticking with his aggressive stroke play.
However, New Zealand fought back, picking up wickets at crucial moments:
- Rohit Sharma (76 off 83) fell to Rachin Ravindra after a stellar knock.
- Virat Kohli (1 off 2) was dismissed by Michael Bracewell, shocking the crowd.
- Shubman Gill (31 off 50) fell to Mitchell Santner, ending a solid start.
- Shreyas Iyer (48 off 62) was caught off Santner, missing his fifty by just two runs.
- Axar Patel (29 off 40) was dismissed by Bracewell, adding to India’s worries.
- Hardik Pandya (18) was caught and bowled, leaving India with 11 runs to get.
With India needing 11 runs with four wickets left, KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja held their nerve. Rahul’s calm presence and Jadeja’s finishing abilities ensured India crossed the line, sealing a famous win.
New Zealand’s Gritty Batting Effort
Earlier, New Zealand posted a competitive 251/7 in 50 overs, courtesy of crucial contributions from Michael Bracewell (half-century) and Daryl Mitchell (63 off 93 balls).
India’s bowlers kept the Kiwis in check, with Varun Chakaravarthy and Kuldeep Yadav taking two wickets each. Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel also played a crucial role in restricting New Zealand’s run flow.
Key moments from New Zealand’s innings:
- Kuldeep Yadav dismissed Kane Williamson (11) and Rachin Ravindra (37), denting New Zealand’s middle order.
- Varun Chakaravarthy sent Glenn Phillips (34) and Will Young (15) back to the pavilion.
- Ravindra Jadeja trapped Tom Latham (14) LBW, further tightening India’s grip.
- Mohammed Shami dismissed Daryl Mitchell (63), breaking a crucial stand.
Despite a slow-paced innings from Mitchell, New Zealand managed to cross 250, thanks to Bracewell’s finishing touch.
Tactical Calls and Missed Opportunities
New Zealand won the toss and opted to bat first, with captain Mitchell Santner leading the side. However, their decision faced challenges as India’s spinners applied immense pressure.
Dropped catches haunted India, as Shami and others missed key opportunities, but the bowlers made up for it with disciplined spells.
India Creates History
This victory holds immense significance, as it marks:
- India’s first-ever win against New Zealand in an ICC tournament final.
- New Zealand previously defeated India in the 2000 Champions Trophy final and the 2021 World Test Championship final.
- India’s fifth major ICC title in ODIs.
Final Thoughts
India’s thrilling victory in the Champions Trophy 2025 final showcased their resilience and ability to handle pressure. Rohit Sharma’s captaincy, the middle-order’s grit, and the bowling unit’s discipline played a pivotal role in securing the title.
As the Indian team lifts the Champions Trophy, fans across the world celebrate a historic win, marking yet another glorious chapter in Indian cricket! 🎉🏆