India Wins Record-Breaking Third ICC Champions Trophy Title with 4-Wicket Victory Over New Zealand
India made history by winning their third ICC Champions Trophy title in 2025, defeating New Zealand by 4 wickets in a thrilling final at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Led by Rohit Sharma’s impressive 76 off 83 balls, India successfully chased down New Zealand’s target of 252. Despite a late fightback from New Zealand’s spinners, KL Rahul (34) and Ravindra Jadeja (9) held their nerve to steer India to victory with just six balls to spare.
Rohit Sharma’s Knock Sets Up India’s Chase
India’s chase of 252 began on a strong note with Rohit Sharma leading the charge. He took on the Kiwi pacers early, playing aggressive strokes to set the tone for India’s pursuit. His partnership with Shubman Gill (31 off 50) laid a solid foundation, with the duo adding 105 runs. Rohit’s dominant innings included seven boundaries and three sixes, which helped nullify the threat of New Zealand’s new-ball bowlers.
However, New Zealand fought back after India seemed to be cruising. Rohit’s departure at 122/3 in the 26th over, following a brilliant catch by Glenn Phillips to dismiss Gill and Virat Kohli’s quick exit, shifted the momentum. At this critical point, Shreyas Iyer (48 off 62) and Axar Patel (29 off 40) steadied the ship, adding 61 runs for the fourth wicket. Despite their dismissals, Rahul and Jadeja finished off the chase, bringing India home in the final over.
India’s Bowlers Restrict New Zealand to 251
After losing the toss, India’s bowlers delivered a disciplined performance to restrict New Zealand to 251/7 on a slow Dubai surface. Varun Chakravarthy (2/45) and Kuldeep Yadav (2/40) were outstanding, dismantling New Zealand’s middle order and keeping the scoring rate under control.
New Zealand’s top order started strong, with Rachin Ravindra (37 off 29) and Will Young (15 off 23) pushing the run rate in the powerplay. However, Kuldeep’s brilliant delivery to remove Ravindra and the subsequent dismissal of Kane Williamson (11) by the same bowler triggered a collapse. Daryl Mitchell (63 off 101) held the innings together but struggled to accelerate against India’s spinners.
Though Tom Latham (14 off 30) and Glenn Phillips (34 off 52) contributed valuable runs, wickets continued to fall at regular intervals. Michael Bracewell (53 off 40) counter-attacked with three fours and two sixes, helping New Zealand surpass 250, but it was not enough to challenge India’s formidable batting lineup.
India Dominates with Third Champions Trophy Win
India’s clinical bowling and composed chase handed them their third Champions Trophy title, adding to their victories in 2002 (joint-winners) and 2013. With this victory, India further cemented their dominance in ICC tournaments, showcasing their strength in both batting and bowling.
This win will go down in history, with Rohit Sharma leading from the front and India’s bowlers ensuring a comprehensive all-round performance to clinch the prestigious title once again.
