Lagatar24 Desk
Dubai: India scripted history by clinching their third ICC Champions Trophy title, defeating New Zealand by four wickets in the final at the Dubai International Stadium on Sunday. With this victory, India became the first team to win the tournament thrice, following their triumphs in 2002 (shared) and 2013.
Skipper Rohit Sharma led from the front with a match-defining 76 off 83 balls, setting up India’s successful chase of 252 in 49 overs. His aggressive start and steady approach in the middle overs ensured that India remained in control despite some hiccups.
Rohit Sharma’s Aggression Sets the Tone
• Shubman Gill (31) provided early support as the duo put on a 105-run opening stand.
• Virat Kohli (0) fell cheaply to Michael Bracewell, but Shreyas Iyer (48) and Axar Patel (29) guided India closer to the target.
• Despite losing quick wickets, KL Rahul (34 off 45 balls)* ensured India crossed the finish line without drama.
New Zealand’s Late Surge Not Enough
Earlier, New Zealand posted 251/7 in 50 overs, riding on well-compiled fifties by Daryl Mitchell (63) and Michael Bracewell (53). However, their batting unit struggled against India’s spin quartet.
• Kuldeep Yadav (2/40) and Varun Chakravarthy (2/45) spun a web around the Kiwi batters, while Axar Patel and Ravindra Jadeja further tightened the grip.
• New Zealand were cruising at 69/1 in 10 overs, but Kuldeep’s first ball dismissed Rachin Ravindra, triggering a collapse.
• The Kiwis failed to score a boundary for 81 consecutive balls after Kuldeep’s entry.
India’s Spin Dominance Secures Victory
The Indian spinners bowled 38 overs, conceding only 144 runs, choking the Kiwi batting lineup.
• Varun Chakravarthy dismissed Will Young (15) and Glenn Phillips (27), while Axar and Jadeja ensured New Zealand never regained momentum.
• Mohammed Shami and Hardik Pandya were expensive early on, but Shami returned to claim Mitchell’s crucial wicket in the 46th over.
A Historic Feat For Team India
With this win, India completed a flawless campaign, winning every match in the tournament. Rohit Sharma, who many believe played his final ODI, led the team from the front, leaving a lasting impact on Indian cricket.
India’s bowlers, led by Kuldeep and Varun, set up the victory, and the batters ensured the chase was executed professionally. With this third Champions Trophy triumph, India cemented its legacy as a dominant force in ICC tournaments.
