IND vs NZ Final, India vs New Zealand Champions Trophy 2025 Highlights: New Zealand opted to bat first but could manage to score just 251. Daryl Mitchell was their top scorer with 63 runs while Michael Bracewell scored an unbeaten half century.
India clinched the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 by defeating New Zealand by four wickets in a thrilling final at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on March 9, 2025.
New Zealand Innings:
After winning the toss, New Zealand opted to bat first and posted a total of 251 for 7 in their 50 overs. Daryl Mitchell top-scored with 63 runs, while Michael Bracewell contributed an unbeaten 53. India’s spinners played a pivotal role, with Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy each claiming two wickets.
India’s Chase:
In response, India started strongly with an opening partnership of 105 runs. Captain Rohit Sharma led from the front, scoring a fluent 76 off 83 balls. Despite a mid-innings wobble induced by New Zealand’s spinners Mitchell Santner and Michael Bracewell, who took two wickets each, India maintained composure. Shreyas Iyer added a valuable 48 runs, and KL Rahul remained unbeaten on 34, guiding India to victory with six balls to spare.
Key Moments:
- A spectacular catch by Glenn Phillips dismissed Shubman Gill, shifting momentum temporarily in New Zealand’s favor.
- Ravindra Jadeja hit the winning runs, sealing India’s triumph and sparking celebrations among Indian fans.
Post-Match Reflections:
Rohit Sharma praised the collective effort, highlighting the spinners’ crucial role throughout the tournament. He expressed immense pride in leading India to their third Champions Trophy title.
New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner acknowledged that his team fell short by about 20 runs and struggled against India’s spinners. Despite the loss, he commended his team’s fighting spirit and their journey to the final.
This victory marked India’s third Champions Trophy title, reinforcing their dominance in ICC tournaments and showcasing their depth and resilience.
