India clinched the Champions Trophy with a four-wicket victory over New Zealand in Dubai, completing an unbeaten campaign. Rohit Sharma was the star of India’s chase, scoring a crucial 76 runs as the team successfully chased a target of 252.
New Zealand, after winning the toss and opting to bat first, posted 251 for 7 in their 50 overs. Rachin Ravindra provided a solid start with 37 runs before being bowled by Kuldeep Yadav, while Kane Williamson contributed 11 before falling to a caught-and-bowled dismissal. Daryl Mitchell played a crucial knock of 63, and Glenn Phillips chipped in with 34, but India’s spin attack kept things tight. Varun Chakravarthy, Ravindra Jadeja, and Kuldeep Yadav were instrumental in containing the opposition, with the latter taking two key wickets.
India’s chase began on a strong note with an opening partnership between Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill, who put on a 105-run stand. Gill was the first to depart, caught by Glenn Phillips off Mitchell Santner for 31. Virat Kohli followed soon after, falling lbw to Michael Bracewell for just 1. Rohit, undeterred, continued to play aggressively, but his dismissal at 122-3 gave New Zealand hope. Shreyas Iyer steadied the innings with a composed 48 before being caught at short fine leg, while Axar Patel added a valuable 29 before he too was dismissed.
With the game in balance, KL Rahul anchored the chase, finishing unbeaten on 34 to guide India home. Ravindra Jadeja played a small but significant role, sealing the victory with a boundary in the 49th over. The win underlined India’s depth, as they triumphed without key players like Jasprit Bumrah and Rishabh Pant.
New Zealand fought hard, with their spinners keeping India in check at various stages. Mitchell Santner, Bracewell, and Kyle Jamieson all picked up crucial wickets, while Glenn Phillips made a significant impact with his fielding. However, India’s batting lineup proved too strong, navigating the chase with composure.
Rohit Sharma was named Player of the Match for his match-winning innings, while Rachin Ravindra was recognized as Player of the Tournament for his consistent performances. Despite the loss, New Zealand showed resilience and came close to pulling off an upset, but India’s experience and depth proved decisive in the end.
This victory cements India’s position as one of the most dominant teams in international cricket. With their balanced squad and the ability to perform under pressure, they once again demonstrated why they are a force to be reckoned with in global tournaments.
