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Team India secured their third ICC Champions Trophy title after defeating New Zealand by four wickets in a thrilling final at the Dubai International Stadium. With this win, India continued their dominant run in international cricket, securing back-to-back global tournament victories.

Chasing a target of 252 runs, India achieved the score in 49 overs, losing six wickets, with KL Rahul’s unbeaten 34 guiding the team to the finish line. Rohit Sharma, India’s captain, delivered a spectacular performance with 76 runs off 83 balls, setting a solid foundation for the chase. Hardik Pandya and Rahul built a crucial 38-run partnership for the sixth wicket, ensuring India clinched the title.

The match began with New Zealand winning the toss and opting to bat first. Despite the slow and two-paced pitch, New Zealand managed to post a competitive total of 251-7 in 50 overs, courtesy of half-centuries from Daryl Mitchell (64) and Michael Bracewell (58). However, their efforts fell short as India’s batting depth and composure under pressure proved decisive.

Rohit Sharma’s Dominant Knock and Rahul’s Finishing Touch

India’s chase started on a high note with Rohit Sharma leading from the front, smashing seven boundaries and three sixes. His aggressive start provided the required momentum, helping India take control of the match.

After Sharma’s dismissal, the middle order experienced some setbacks, but KL Rahul held his ground, ensuring India maintained their momentum. Hardik Pandya's quick 18 off 36 balls also played a pivotal role in the successful chase.

In the post-match press conference, Rohit Sharma, aged 37, put an end to retirement speculation, confirming his commitment to one-day internationals (ODIs). Having retired from T20 internationals along with Virat Kohli after winning the T20 World Cup last year, Sharma emphasized his intention to lead India in the 2027 Cricket World Cup.

“I’m not going to retire from this format, just to make sure no rumors are spread moving forward,” Sharma clarified.

New Zealand’s Batting Struggle and Indian Bowling Dominance

Batting first, New Zealand faced tough competition from India’s disciplined bowling attack. Although Daryl Mitchell’s 64 off 82 balls and Michael Bracewell’s 58 off 70 balls offered some resistance, the remaining batting lineup struggled to accelerate.

India’s bowlers Mohammed Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah, and Ravindra Jadeja kept the scoring rate under control. Jadeja's crucial spell of 2-42 played a major role in restricting New Zealand below 260 runs. Despite a late surge, New Zealand fell short of setting a highly challenging total.

Unbeaten India Secures Third Champions Trophy Title

With this victory, India remained unbeaten throughout the tournament, marking an incredible run of 23 wins in their last 24 ICC tournament matches since 2023. Their only loss came against Australia in the 2023 Cricket World Cup final.

India’s journey in the Champions Trophy 2025 saw them defeating Bangladesh, Pakistan, and New Zealand in the group stages. In the semi-final, India defeated Australia, securing their spot in the final. On the other hand, New Zealand advanced by beating South Africa in Lahore after defeating Pakistan in Karachi and Bangladesh in Rawalpindi during the group stages.

All of India’s matches were hosted in Dubai after the Indian government declined to send its team to Pakistan — the official host — citing security concerns. The decision resulted in India playing all their games at the Dubai International Stadium.

Rohit Sharma’s Legacy and Future Plans

The Champions Trophy 2025 final also brought discussions about Rohit Sharma’s future in international cricket. Having previously retired from T20 internationals, fans anticipated a similar announcement for ODIs after the tournament. However, Sharma confirmed his commitment to ODIs, aiming to lead India in the 2027 Cricket World Cup.

“One thing I want to clear – I’m not retiring from ODIs anytime soon. My focus is now on preparing this team for the 2027 Cricket World Cup,” Sharma stated during the conference.

The victory marked India’s third Champions Trophy title, with their previous victories occurring in 2002 (shared with Sri Lanka) and 2013 (defeating England). This also established India as one of the most dominant forces in international cricket, having won two ICC trophies in less than two years.

New Zealand’s Heartbreak Continues

For New Zealand, the loss continued their struggle to secure ICC trophies. Their only Champions Trophy victory came in 2000, when they defeated India in Nairobi, Kenya. Despite showing resilience throughout the tournament, New Zealand once again fell short in an ICC final.

The Blackcaps' journey included victories against Pakistan in Karachi, Bangladesh in Rawalpindi, and a semi-final win over South Africa in Lahore. However, they were unable to counter India's powerful performance in the final.

India’s Road to Victory in Champions Trophy 2025

• Group Stage:
  • Defeated Bangladesh by 8 wickets.
  • Defeated Pakistan by 6 wickets.
  • Defeated New Zealand by 4 wickets.
• Semi-final:
  • Defeated Australia by 7 wickets.
• Final:
  • Defeated New Zealand by 4 wickets.

Upcoming ICC Events

Following their Champions Trophy triumph, India’s next major ICC assignment will be the 2025 ICC World Test Championship final, where they are likely to face Australia again. Additionally, preparations have already begun for the 2027 Cricket World Cup, where Rohit Sharma is expected to lead the squad.

The resounding victory has further strengthened India’s dominance in international cricket, and the team now aims to build a squad capable of sustaining success in future ICC tournaments.

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