India lifted their third Champions Trophy after a hard-fought four-wicket victory over New Zealand in the final at the Dubai International Stadium on Sunday.
Captain Rohit Sharma took charge and played a vital knock, scoring 76 runs off 83 balls. Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, and Hardik Pandya also played vital roles, ensuring India chased down the 252-run target with an over to spare.
At first, the chase seemed straightforward on a pitch that didn’t offer much help to the bowlers. But New Zealand fought back, taking regular wickets and making things tense for India. When Rohit got out, the game took a nervous turn. However, India’s deep batting lineup held firm, overcoming the challenge despite New Zealand’s determined spin attack.
In the end, India’s resilience and experience saw them through, securing yet another major title in style.
Shreyas Iyer played a steady knock of 48 off 62 balls, while KL Rahul kept his cool till the end, remaining unbeaten on 34 off 33 balls. Their efforts ensured India clinched its third Champions Trophy title, adding to their wins in 2002 and 2013. With this victory, India became the most successful team in the tournament’s history, celebrating the moment in front of a stadium packed with Indian fans.
This win also brought joy and relief to the team and millions of supporters, especially after the heartbreak of missing out on the 2023 ODI World Cup title at home.
Earlier in the day, New Zealand put up a fighting total of 251/7 in their 50 overs, thanks to contrasting half-centuries from all-rounders Daryl Mitchell (63 off 101 balls) and Michael Bracewell (53 not out off 40 balls). But in the end, India’s batting depth and composure under pressure sealed a memorable victory.
India’s spinners took control on a slow pitch, collectively grabbing five wickets to keep New Zealand in check. The wrist-spin duo of Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakaravarthy picked up two wickets each, while Ravindra Jadeja added one to his tally. Their efforts laid the foundation for yet another solid team performance.
Match Summary:
New Zealand – 251/7 in 50 overs
Top Scorers (New Zealand): Daryl Mitchell 63, Michael Bracewell 53*
Best Bowlers (India): Kuldeep Yadav 2-40, Varun Chakaravarthy 2-45
India – 254/6 in 49 overs
Top Scorers: Rohit Sharma 76, Shreyas Iyer 48
Best Bowlers (New Zealand): Michael Bracewell 2-28, Mitchell Santner 2-46
Result: India won by four wickets
ALSO READ – India Wins Against Australia to Enter Champions Trophy Final
