Lagatar24 Desk
Dubai: India captain Rohit Sharma expressed heartfelt gratitude to fans after leading his team to a thrilling four-wicket victory over New Zealand in the Champions Trophy 2025 final at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Sunday. India secured their record third Champions Trophy title, surpassing Australia’s two-trophy tally, with a dominant display throughout the tournament.
“The Crowd Made It Our Home Ground” – Rohit Sharma
India played all their matches in Dubai after refusing to tour Pakistan, the original host, due to political tensions. Despite the away setting, Indian fans turned the Dubai stadium into a fortress, a sentiment that Rohit acknowledged in his post-match reaction.
“I want to appreciate everyone who came out and supported us. The crowd here has been magnificent. It is not our home ground, but they made it our home ground. The number of people that came here to watch us play, to give them that win was satisfying.”
Rohit’s Dominant Knock Sets the Tone
India chased down 252 runs in 49 overs, with Rohit Sharma’s crucial 76 off 83 balls setting the foundation. His aggressive start kept India slightly ahead, even as New Zealand staged comebacks at regular intervals.
“It was a challenging pitch, and New Zealand kept fighting back, but we held our nerves well. I’m proud of the way we played as a team.”
Despite late jitters, KL Rahul’s unbeaten 34 and Ravindra Jadeja’s winning boundary ensured India crossed the finish line with six balls to spare.
India’s Historic Champions Trophy Feat
With this victory, India became the first team to win the Champions Trophy three times (2002, 2013, 2025), surpassing Australia’s two titles.
The world’s number one ODI team, India remained unbeaten throughout the eight-nation tournament, which was co-hosted by Pakistan and the UAE.
Spinners Dominate on Sluggish Dubai Pitch
In a battle dictated by spin, New Zealand’s bowlers tested India, reducing them to 203/5, with both Rohit Sharma and Shreyas Iyer (48) back in the pavilion.
However, KL Rahul (34), Hardik Pandya (18), and Ravindra Jadeja (7)** held their nerves in the death overs, steering India home amid loud cheers from a largely Indian crowd draped in blue.
