India Clinches 2025 ICC Champions Trophy with Thrilling Victory Over New Zealand
India emerged victorious in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, defeating New Zealand by four wickets in a gripping final at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on March 9, 2025. This victory marked India’s third Champions Trophy title, making them the most successful team in the tournament’s history.
Match Summary
New Zealand, after winning the toss, opted to bat first and posted a competitive total of 251/9 in 50 overs. India, in response, chased down the target with six balls to spare, thanks to a captain’s knock from Rohit Sharma (76) and a composed finishing act by KL Rahul (34).*
New Zealand’s Innings: A Steady Start and Late Flourish
New Zealand’s batting lineup delivered a mixed performance, with moments of brilliance from Daryl Mitchell (63) and Michael Bracewell (53).*
Top Performers for New Zealand:
- Daryl Mitchell – 63 (78 balls, 6 fours, 1 six)
- Michael Bracewell – 53* (48 balls, 5 fours)
- Finn Allen – 41 (55 balls, 5 fours, 1 six)
The Indian bowlers, led by spinners Kuldeep Yadav (3/47) and Varun Chakravarthy (2/39), played a key role in restricting New Zealand. Fast bowlers Jasprit Bumrah (2/45) and Mohammed Siraj (1/50) provided crucial breakthroughs, preventing New Zealand from reaching a 270+ score.
New Zealand’s lower order tried to accelerate in the final overs, with Bracewell playing a fighting knock. However, disciplined Indian bowling ensured that the Kiwis were kept to 251/9.
India’s Chase: Rohit Sharma Leads from the Front
Chasing 252 on a slow Dubai pitch was never going to be easy, but Indian skipper Rohit Sharma led from the front with a well-paced 76 off 84 balls.
Top Performers for India:
- Rohit Sharma – 76 (84 balls, 8 fours, 2 sixes)
- Shubman Gill – 44 (52 balls, 5 fours)
- Virat Kohli – 39 (46 balls, 4 fours)
- KL Rahul – 34* (40 balls, 3 fours)
India started cautiously, with openers Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill adding 72 runs for the first wicket. After Gill’s dismissal, Virat Kohli provided stability, forging an 88-run partnership with Rohit.
However, New Zealand’s bowlers fought back, with Trent Boult (2/42) and Mitchell Santner (2/38) taking quick wickets, leaving India at 192/5 in the 40th over.
At this stage, KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja (21)* held their nerves, ensuring that India reached the target in 49 overs.
Turning Points of the Match
- Kuldeep Yadav’s three-wicket haul – His spell in the middle overs broke New Zealand’s momentum.
- Rohit Sharma’s captain’s knock – His authoritative 76 set the foundation for the chase.
- KL Rahul’s calm finish – He ensured India crossed the line despite losing wickets in the middle overs.
Past ICC Champions Trophy Winners:
- 1998: South Africa
- 2000: New Zealand
- 2002: India & Sri Lanka (joint winners)
- 2004: West Indies
- 2006: Australia
- 2009: Australia
- 2013: India
- 2017: Pakistan
- 2025: India
India’s victory further solidifies their dominance in limited-overs cricket, especially in ICC tournaments.
Player of the Match & Player of the Tournament
- Player of the Match: Rohit Sharma (76 runs)
- Player of the Tournament: Kuldeep Yadav (13 wickets in the tournament)
Reactions from Players & Experts
Rohit Sharma (India Captain):
“This is a special win for us. The boys showed great character throughout the tournament. Our bowlers set the tone, and our batters finished the job.”
Kane Williamson (New Zealand Captain):
“Tough loss, but I’m proud of the way our team played. We fought hard but fell short against a strong Indian side.”
Sachin Tendulkar (Former India Captain):
“What a fantastic performance by Team India! Rohit led brilliantly, and the bowlers stepped up at the right time.”
Conclusion
India’s Champions Trophy 2025 victory is a testament to their strong leadership, disciplined bowling, and composed batting under pressure. With this win, they have added yet another ICC trophy to their illustrious cricketing history.
India now looks forward to maintaining their dominance in upcoming international tournaments, while New Zealand will aim to bounce back stronger.