India secured their third ICC Champions Trophy title after a thrilling four-wicket victory over New Zealand in the final at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
A brilliant bowling effort set the stage before skipper Rohit Sharma led the chase with a stunning half-century.
Chasing 252, India comfortably reached the target with six balls to spare. Sharma and Shubman Gill gave India a strong start with a 105-run opening partnership. Sharma dominated the innings with a 76 off 83 balls, hitting seven fours and three sixes, while Gill contributed 31 off 50 before falling to Mitchell Santner.
India then faced quick setbacks as Virat Kohli (1) and Sharma departed in succession. However, Axar Patel (29) and Shreyas Iyer (48) steadied the chase with a 61-run stand. After their dismissal, Hardik Pandya (17) and KL Rahul (34)* took charge, ensuring India’s victory despite a late scare from Kyle Jamieson.
For New Zealand, Santner and Michael Bracewell took two wickets each, while Rachin Ravindra and Jamieson picked up one each.
Earlier, New Zealand posted 251/7 after opting to bat first. Daryl Mitchell (63 off 101) anchored the innings with support from Glenn Phillips (34) and Michael Bracewell (53)*. The Kiwis had a strong start with a 57-run opening stand, but India’s bowlers, led by Kuldeep Yadav (2/45) and Varun Chakravarthy (2/38), kept them in check. Mohammed Shami and Ravindra Jadeja also contributed with a wicket each.
With this win, India lifts its third ICC Champions Trophy, adding to their victories in 2002 and 2013.
BDST: 0006 HRS, MAR 10, 2025
MSK
