India Clinches ICC Champions Trophy 2025 with Thrilling Victory Over New Zealand

Dubai, March 9, 2025 – India has once again etched its name in cricket history by winning the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, defeating New Zealand by four wickets in a high-octane final at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. With six balls to spare, the Men in Blue showcased nerves of steel, clinching their third Champions Trophy title in style!

New Zealand’s Innings: A Steady Start, A Fighting Finish

Opting to bat first after winning the toss, New Zealand posted a competitive total of 251/7 in 50 overs. Daryl Mitchell played a crucial anchor role, scoring a hard-fought 63 off 101 balls, while Michael Bracewell’s quickfire 53 off 40 balls* provided much-needed acceleration in the death overs.

However, India’s bowling attack, led by Kuldeep Yadav (2/38) and Mohammed Shami (2/45), kept the Kiwi batters in check, restricting them from posting an even bigger target. ????????

New Zealand’s Top Performers:
✅ Daryl Mitchell – 63 (101)
✅ Michael Bracewell – 53* (40)
✅ Kane Williamson – 42 (58)

India’s Best Bowlers:
✅ Kuldeep Yadav – 2/38
✅ Mohammed Shami – 2/45
✅ Jasprit Bumrah – 1/46

India’s Chase: A Test of Grit and Determination

India’s chase got off to a solid start, with Rohit Sharma (47) and Shubman Gill (38) providing a steady foundation. However, the Kiwi bowlers fought back with key breakthroughs, dismissing Virat Kohli (27) and Shreyas Iyer (31) just when they looked set.

With the required run rate creeping up, the onus fell on KL Rahul (57) and Ravindra Jadeja (39)**, who kept their composure to guide India home in the 49th over. Jadeja’s all-round brilliance and Rahul’s calculated innings ensured India lifted the Champions Trophy once again! ????????

India’s Key Batting Performers:
✅ KL Rahul – 57* (61) ????
✅ Rohit Sharma – 47 (55)
✅ Shubman Gill – 38 (42)
✅ Ravindra Jadeja – 39* (35)

New Zealand’s Top Bowlers:
✅ Matt Henry – 2/47
✅ Mitchell Santner – 2/50
✅ Trent Boult – 1/42

Key Moments That Defined the Final

Jadeja’s Match-Winning Six – With India needing 5 runs off 8 balls, Ravindra Jadeja smashed a powerful six over deep mid-wicket, sealing the victory in style!

KL Rahul’s Calm Under Pressure – Facing a tricky run chase, Rahul held his nerve, crafting a composed 57 off 61 balls*, ensuring India crossed the finish line.

Kuldeep’s Magic Spell – The leg-spinner dismissed Williamson and Mitchell in quick succession, putting India back in control during the middle overs.

⏳ New Zealand’s Late Fightback – Bracewell and Henry tried to swing the momentum back with a fiery spell in the last 10 overs, but India’s depth proved too strong.

What This Victory Means for India 

This win cements India’s dominance in world cricket, adding another ICC trophy to their illustrious cabinet. Having last won the Champions Trophy in 2013, this victory ends a 12-year wait for another title in the tournament. With this triumph, India has now won the Champions Trophy three times (2002, 2013, 2025)! ????????

Prize Money & Rewards 

Winners (India): $2.24 million 
Runners-up (New Zealand): $1.12 million 

Final Thoughts: India’s Dominance Continues! 

The Champions Trophy 2025 final was a thrilling contest filled with high drama, intense cricket, and unforgettable moments. India’s unwavering determination, skill, and composure under pressure proved why they are one of the best teams in the world.

With this victory, India has once again shown that big matches demand big performances – and the Men in Blue delivered just that! 

Congratulations to Team India – the Champions Trophy 2025 WINNERS!