India vs New Zealand Highlights, Champions Trophy 2025 Final: India Clinch Thrilling Four-Wicket Win to Secure Record 3rd Title
India defeated New Zealand in a thrilling final of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, clinching their third title in the tournament’s history. The match, held at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, saw India successfully chase down 252 runs set by the Blackcaps. India reached their target in 49 overs, winning by four wickets.
India had previously won the Champions Trophy as joint-winners in 2002, before lifting the trophy again in 2013. Their victory in 2025 now marks their record-breaking third title in the prestigious ICC event.
New Zealand’s Innings
New Zealand won the toss and chose to bat first. Their innings were anchored by Daryl Mitchell (63) and Michael Bracewell (53), who both played key knocks. However, India’s spinners proved to be the difference. Kuldeep Yadav (2 for 40) and Varun Chakravarthy (2 for 45) took two wickets each, while Ravindra Jadeja and Mohammed Shami picked up one wicket apiece. As a result, New Zealand was restricted to a total of 251 for 7 in their allotted 50 overs.
India’s Chase
India began the chase with confidence, thanks to a solid knock from Rohit Sharma, who made 76 runs. Shreyas Iyer (48) and KL Rahul (34 not out) also played crucial contributions, ensuring India crossed the line. Despite a few wickets falling along the way, India managed to finish the job with one over to spare, claiming the victory by four wickets.
Key Highlights and Statements
- Rohit Sharma’s Post-Match Thoughts:
“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. Not just this game but right through, our spinners, in particular, were brilliant. There’s too much expectation when you’re playing on a pitch like that, and we used their strengths to our advantage.” - Mitchell Santner’s Reaction:
“It has been a good tournament. We had challenges along the way, but we have grown as a group and played some good cricket. We were beaten by a good side who turned up today. A lot of good things came from our group, with players stepping up at different times, and that’s all you can ask for as a captain. We lost a couple of wickets after the powerplay. Credit to their spinners, all four of them were world-class. We were 25 runs under par, but we had a total and tried to fight until the end.” - Player of the Tournament: Rachin Ravindra:
New Zealand’s all-rounder Rachin Ravindra was named Player of the Tournament. Ravindra had an outstanding campaign, finishing as the top run-scorer with 263 runs in just four matches. He also contributed with the ball, picking up three wickets throughout the tournament. - Virat Kohli on His Retirement and the Win:
“When you leave, you want to leave the team in a better place. I feel we’ve got a squad ready to take on the world for the next 8 years. Shubman has been outstanding, Shreyas has played some top knocks, KL has finished games, and Hardik has been superb with the bat. Winning this Champions Trophy after a tough Australian tour is an amazing feeling. There’s so much talent in the dressing room, and it’s great to share our experience and help these younger players grow. That’s what makes this Indian team so strong.” - Varun Chakravarthy’s Comments:
“I do have earrings like Shreyas Iyer (on having earrings), but I’ll get a new one though. I wasn’t expecting to play, but being included in the XI for this match was a dream come true. The spin was less in the first innings, so I had to stay disciplined and stick to the basics.” - Shreyas Iyer’s Reflections:
“I’m feeling ecstatic, it’s indescribable. This is my first ICC trophy, and I can’t put into words how special it is to be part of this. The way everyone has performed throughout the tournament has been incredible. I thrive under pressure, and I’ve been getting into such situations and was happy to contribute to the win today.” - Hardik Pandya on the Victory:
“Winning an ICC tournament is always special, and the Champions Trophy is close to my heart. 2017 was a tough loss, but we couldn’t finish the job back then. This time, everyone contributed. KL Rahul finished the game brilliantly, calm and composed, taking his chances at the right times. KL has immense talent, and I don’t think anyone can hit the ball like he can.”
Final Thoughts and Celebrations
India’s victory in the 2025 Champions Trophy solidifies their position as one of the greatest cricketing nations, with this being their third title in the tournament’s history. Their balanced team performance, spearheaded by the spinners, and the brilliant chase led by Rohit Sharma and Shreyas Iyer, proved to be the difference in a memorable final. The Indian team’s unity and experience, combined with the emergence of new talent, promise even greater success in the future.
Final Match Summary:
- New Zealand: 251/7 (50 overs)
- India: 252/6 (49 overs)
India won by 4 wickets to claim their third Champions Trophy title.
