Dubai, March 9 – India lifted their third ICC Champions Trophy after a tense four-wicket victory over New Zealand in the final at the Dubai International Stadium on Sunday. The win adds to India’s previous titles in 2002 (shared with Sri Lanka) and 2013, reaffirming their dominance in global cricket.
Rohit, Iyer, and Rahul Shine in Chase
Chasing a target of 252, India’s innings was anchored by captain Rohit Sharma, who played a crucial knock of 76. Shreyas Iyer contributed 48, while KL Rahul’s unbeaten 34 ensured India crossed the finish line with six balls to spare.
India had moments of concern, particularly after the dismissal of Hardik Pandya for 18 in the 48th over. With 11 needed off 15 balls, Kyle Jamieson’s sharp delivery led to Pandya’s mistimed shot, caught cleanly in the deep. However, Ravindra Jadeja and Rahul remained composed, sealing the victory with a boundary in the final over.
New Zealand’s Late Surge Not Enough
New Zealand, after opting to bat first, posted 251/7 in their 50 overs. Daryl Mitchell led the charge with 63 runs, while Michael Bracewell’s unbeaten half-century provided the finishing touches. Despite the strong start, India’s spin duo of Varun Chakaravarthy (2/37) and Kuldeep Yadav (2/44) applied pressure in the middle overs, restricting the Black Caps’ scoring rate.
The Kiwis were struggling at 172/6 before Bracewell’s late acceleration pushed them past 250, with 79 runs coming in the last 10 overs. Mohammed Shami and Jadeja chipped in with one wicket each.
Historic Win for India
India’s triumph in Dubai marks another milestone in their white-ball dominance, having won the ODI World Cup in 2011 and the Champions Trophy in 2013. This victory, achieved in a pressure-packed final, highlights India’s depth and resilience in crucial moments.
As celebrations erupted among Indian players and fans, captain Rohit Sharma dedicated the win to the team’s hard work and consistency. “This was a collective effort. Every player stepped up when it mattered the most,” he said in the post-match ceremony.
India’s latest ICC triumph will now shift focus to the upcoming T20 World Cup, where they aim to continue their winning momentum.
The Chenab Times News Desk