In a thrilling finale at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, India defeated New Zealand by four wickets to secure the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. Skipper Rohit Sharma led from the front with a stellar 76, guiding India to chase down the 252-run target with six balls to spare.
Match Overview
New Zealand, opting to bat first, posted a total of 251-7 in their allotted 50 overs. Daryl Mitchell top-scored with 63, while Michael Bracewell contributed an unbeaten 53, propelling the team past the 250-run mark.
India’s chase began on a strong note, with Rohit Sharma anchoring the innings. Despite a few hiccups, including quick dismissals of Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli, contributions from Shreyas Iyer (48) and an unbeaten 34 from KL Rahul ensured India reached the target in 49 overs.
Key Moments
- Spin Dominance: Indian spinners Varun Chakaravarthy and Kuldeep Yadav were instrumental in restricting New Zealand’s scoring during the middle overs, each claiming two wickets.
- Fielding Lapses: India’s fielding was less than stellar, with several dropped catches that could have shifted the momentum.
- Bracewell’s Resilience: Michael Bracewell’s late surge, scoring an unbeaten half-century, added crucial runs for New Zealand, ensuring a competitive total.
Player of the Match
Rohit Sharma’s composed 76 runs not only set the foundation for India’s chase but also earned him the Player of the Match accolade.
This victory underscores India’s dominance in the ODI format, adding a third Champions Trophy title to their illustrious cricketing history.
