India’s Redemption and Glory Under Rohit Sharma
The ICC Champions Trophy returned in 2025 after an 8-year hiatus, and India made a triumphant comeback by clinching their second title with a thrilling win over New Zealand in the final at Dubai. Under the astute leadership of Rohit Sharma, the Indian cricket team showcased consistency, grit, and sheer dominance across all departments.
This marked India’s seventh straight ODI win over New Zealand and their 23rd win out of 24 ICC white-ball games across the last three major tournaments (CWC, T20 WC, and CT). With this win, India joined Australia with two Champions Trophy titles.
Match Overview: Spin to Win
The final was a spin-dominated affair with India and New Zealand combining for a record 73 overs of spin—the most ever in an ICC tournament ODI. India’s strategy to rely on spin proved pivotal. Varun Chakaravarthy, who wasn’t even part of the starting XI at the beginning, picked up a crucial five-wicket haul in the final, proving to be the tournament’s surprise package.
India played all their matches at one venue, the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, and turned it into a fortress. With a record 10 ODI wins without defeat at the venue, India’s tactical mastery was evident throughout the campaign.
Heroic Performances Across the Board
Rohit Sharma saved his best for the final, anchoring the innings with a nearly run-a-ball knock. Shreyas Iyer was the tournament’s top run-scorer, displaying maturity and flair in the middle order. Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill, and KL Rahul all contributed critical innings across matches, with Rahul finishing multiple games with his signature calmness.
The spin quartet of Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, and Varun Chakaravarthy choked opponents consistently. Mohammed Shami and Hardik Pandya provided the pace balance, while the team’s unity and depth shone through in tight moments.
Quotes from the Captains
Rohit Sharma (India Captain): “It may not be our home ground, but the crowd made it feel like one. Our spinners were phenomenal throughout. Everyone stepped up, from Rahul’s calm to Varun’s magic. This was a team victory in the truest sense.”
Mitchell Santner (New Zealand Captain): “We fell a bit short but I’m proud of our group. We adapted well despite losing key players. India were just too good today, especially their spinners.”
New Zealand’s Heartbreak and Rachin’s Rise
New Zealand, yet again, ended on the wrong side of an ICC final. Despite missing Matt Henry and the absence of a wrist spinner, they fought valiantly. Mitchell Santner led admirably, and Glenn Phillips’ fielding was a highlight. Rachin Ravindra, named Player of the Tournament, continued his meteoric rise with stellar performances with both bat and ball. At just 25, he’s proving to be a modern-day all-format star.
Celebrations and the Final Ceremony
The Indian players celebrated with emotion and energy as they received the winner’s white jackets and took photos under the glittering “CHAMPIONS 2025” banner. Rohit Sharma lifted the trophy presented by Jay Shah, while Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant were seen sharing moments with their families. Confetti, champagne, and celebratory moves from Shreyas Iyer and Harshit Rana lit up the night.
Final Thoughts
This win cements India’s position as the dominant force in world cricket’s white-ball format. It was a complete team performance across matches, with every player contributing when it mattered. As for New Zealand, they once again won hearts with their sportsmanship and spirited fight.
Category: Cricket News, ICC Tournaments
Tags: India vs New Zealand, ICC Champions Trophy 2025, Rohit Sharma, Shreyas Iyer, Rachin Ravindra, Indian Cricket Team, Dubai Cricket Stadium, Spin Bowling, Cricket Final, ICC Tournament Winners
