Rohit’s Heroics, Shreyas and Rahul’s Steady Hands Steer India to Glory After Bowlers Restrict Kiwis to 251
India reaffirmed its dominance in world cricket by securing a hard-fought four-wicket victory over New Zealand in the ICC Champions Trophy final at the Dubai International Stadium on Sunday (March 9, 2025). With clinical precision and fearless gameplay, the Men in Blue chased down 252, thanks to a captain’s knock by Rohit Sharma and vital contributions from Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul.
Leading from the front, Rohit Sharma (76) set the tone early, launching the second ball of the innings from Kyle Jamieson into the stands. His aggressive intent sent a clear message as he dismantled the Kiwi attack with elegant drives and audacious pulls. The captain reached his half-century in style, displaying a mix of classical stroke play and innovative shots.
However, just when India seemed poised for a smooth chase, quick wickets turned the tide. From a commanding 105 for no loss, India suddenly found itself in a precarious position at 122 for three.
Stepping up under pressure, Shreyas Iyer (48) exhibited composure, particularly against spin, lofting timely sixes to keep the required rate in check. Axar Patel provided crucial support, forming a 61-run stand for the fourth wicket before the Kiwi spinners, led by Michael Bracewell and Mitchell Santner, struck again to create tension in the final overs.
With the match in the balance, KL Rahul (34 not out) anchored the innings, ensuring India remained on course. Ravindra Jadeja, instrumental earlier with the ball, fittingly sealed the triumph with a boundary, igniting celebrations in the Indian camp and among the passionate fans.
New Zealand, after electing to bat, posted a respectable 251 for seven, courtesy of half-centuries from Daryl Mitchell (63) and Michael Bracewell (53 not out). The Kiwi openers got off to a flying start, with Rachin Ravindra (37) attacking India’s seamers in the PowerPlay. However, the introduction of spin changed the game’s complexion.
Varun Chakaravarthy provided the breakthrough, trapping Will Young (15) leg-before, while Kuldeep Yadav delivered a twin blow, deceiving Ravindra and dismissing Kane Williamson (11) in quick succession.
Jadeja and Axar Patel tightened the noose in the middle overs with remarkable accuracy, limiting scoring opportunities. Despite Bracewell’s late onslaught, which saw him clear the ropes multiple times, India’s disciplined bowling effort ensured the total remained within reach.
Final Scorecard
New Zealand Innings:
- Will Young lbw b Chakaravarthy 15
- Rachin Ravindra b Kuldeep 37
- Kane Williamson c & b Kuldeep 11
- Daryl Mitchell c Rohit b Shami 63
- Tom Latham lbw b Jadeja 14
- Glenn Phillips b Chakaravarthy 34
- Michael Bracewell not out 53
- Mitchell Santner run out 8
- Nathan Smith not out 0
- Extras: (LB-3, W-13) 16
- Total: 251/7 in 50 overs
Fall of Wickets: 1-57, 2-69, 3-75, 4-108, 5-165, 6-211, 7-239
India Bowling:
- Mohammed Shami 9-0-74-1
- Hardik Pandya 3-0-30-0
- Varun Chakaravarthy 10-0-45-2
- Kuldeep Yadav 10-0-40-2
- Axar Patel 8-0-29-0
- Ravindra Jadeja 10-0-30-1
India Innings (Target: 252 runs in 50 overs):
- Rohit Sharma st Latham b Ravindra 76
- Shubman Gill c Phillips b Santner 31
- Virat Kohli lbw b Bracewell 1
- Shreyas Iyer c Ravindra b Santner 48
- Axar Patel c O’Rourke b Bracewell 29
- KL Rahul not out 34
- Hardik Pandya c & b Jamieson 18
- Ravindra Jadeja not out 9
- Extras: (W-8) 8
- Total: 254/6 in 49 overs
Fall of Wickets: 1-105, 2-106, 3-122, 4-183, 5-203, 6-241
New Zealand Bowling:
- Kyle Jamieson 5-0-24-1
- Will O’Rourke 7-0-56-0
- Nathan Smith 2-0-22-0
- Mitchell Santner 10-0-46-2
- Rachin Ravindra 10-1-47-1
- Michael Bracewell 10-1-28-2
- Glenn Phillips 5-0-31-0
A Triumph to Remember
With this victory, India cemented its status as one of the most formidable teams in world cricket, showcasing resilience, tactical brilliance, and match-winning performances under pressure. Rohit Sharma, leading from the front, ensured India’s cricketing legacy continued to shine bright on the global stage.
