IND vs NZ, ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final: India captain Rohit Sharma led by example in the ICC Champions Trophy final, delivering a match-winning performance in Dubai. The ‘Hitman’ played a crucial knock of 76 off 83 balls, setting the foundation for India’s successful chase of 252 against New Zealand. Later, KL Rahul and Hardik Pandya played vital cameos at No. 6 and No. 5, steering India to a historic victory at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Sunday (March 8).
Despite losing his 12th consecutive toss, Rohit’s side put up a disciplined bowling display, restricting New Zealand to 251/7 in 50 overs. Spinners Kuldeep Yadav (2/40) and Varun Chakaravarthy (2/45) made key breakthroughs, keeping the Kiwis in check. In the end, India triumphed by four wickets, securing yet another ICC title in emphatic fashion.
Here are top highlights of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final
India's struggles in the field
Despite India's four-pronged spin attack effectively controlling the run rate, their efforts were undermined by sloppy fielding. Men in Blue were guilty of dropping four catches, missing key opportunities to tighten their grip on the game.
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Kuldeep Yadav-Varun Chakaravarthy shine
Kuldeep Yadav silenced his critics in style, delivering a sensational performance by dismissing New Zealand's key batters—Kane Williamson and Rachin Ravindra. Some had questioned his ability to shine on big occasions. However, Kuldeep wasted no time in proving them wrong, striking with his very first delivery to send a well-set Rachin Ravindra back to the pavilion for 37 off 29 balls.
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Meanwhile, Varun Chakaravarthy continued his impressive form, playing a crucial role in India's disciplined bowling effort. He provided an early breakthrough by trapping Will Young and later returned to remove Glenn Phillips, helping India restrict New Zealand to a modest total of 251.
Mitchell-Bracewell save New Zealand
Daryl Mitchell anchored New Zealand’s innings with a solid 63, while Michael Bracewell provided a crucial late boost with an unbeaten 53, guiding the team to a competitive 251/7 after opting to bat first.
Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill crush NZ early
India captain Rohit Sharma and vice-captain Shubman Gill crushed New Zealand's hope of winning the final with a sensational opening partnership. 'Hit-man' Sharma was at his best taking the attack to the Kiwis bowler while 'Prince' Gill started off slow watching his skipper demolish the opposition bowlers. Gill was dismissed courtesy a stunning catch from Glenn Phillips, New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner provided the much-needed breakthrough.
Kohli and co fail to impress
Virat Kohli was dismissed for one as Michael Bracewell trapped him LBW. He took a review after discussion with his captain on the non-striker end but three red signs on the screen made him walk back to the pavilion. Apart from Rohit Sharma who got 76 off 83 balls, every batter in the top-order failed to impress. Axar Patel was lively until his knock of 29 off 40 got over. Shreyas Iyer scored some runs with his balanced approach (48 off 62 deliveries) but failed to seal the game for Men in Blue.
Hardik, Rahul seal the final for India
In the end, it was Hardik Pandya and KL Rahul who helped India sealed the deal with their brilliant cameos. While chasing, India faced some anxious moments when they lost two wickets after being well paced at 183 for three after 38 years, but KL Rahul (34 not out off 33 balls) showed great composure to see his team through after Hardik Pandya's breezy 18-run knock. India won the trophy without losing a match, reflecting their dominance.
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