A Nerve-Wracking Chase

The Black Caps set a competitive total of 251/7 after being asked to bat first, but India’s chase was anything but easy. With wickets falling regularly, the match remained in the balance for a significant portion of India’s innings. However, KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja kept their cool in the final overs to guide India to victory.

The chase began with a solid foundation thanks to Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill, who put on a 105-run opening stand. But as cricket goes, just when the game looked to be in India’s control, New Zealand hit back with quick wickets. Glenn Phillips took a spectacular catch to dismiss Gill for 31, and soon after, Virat Kohli was trapped lbw for just 1 by Michael Bracewell.

As India’s top order started to crumble, Rohit Sharma fell for 76, stumped off the bowling of Rachin Ravindra. A couple of more wickets fell quickly, leaving the chase looking uncertain. But with calm heads from KL Rahul (who ended on 46 not out) and Ravindra Jadeja (who scored 16 not out), India clinched the win with just one over to spare.

A Steady Start for New Zealand

Earlier in the match, New Zealand had a rocky start with the bat. Despite getting off to a quick start, India’s spinners took control. Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy were brilliant in the middle overs, both picking up key wickets. Kuldeep removed Will Young and Kane Williamson, while Varun dismissed Glenn Phillips and then Ravindra in a match-turning spell.

Despite the spinners’ dominance, New Zealand’s lower order fought back. Daryl Mitchell was the standout with an important 63, helping his side put together a challenging total in the latter part of the innings. Still, with wickets falling regularly, New Zealand’s score of 251/7 felt like it might not be enough.

The Spin Battle

India’s spinners, especially Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy, were the real match-winners. Their control over the middle overs was outstanding, reducing New Zealand’s scoring rate and keeping the pressure on the batting side. Ravindra Jadeja also played his part with a key wicket and tight bowling.

Injuries and Setbacks for New Zealand

The Black Caps were already dealing with the loss of Matt Henry, who was their highest wicket-taker in the tournament, and things got worse when Kane Williamson suffered a quad injury. While New Zealand fought bravely, these setbacks, combined with India’s excellent bowling, proved too much to overcome.

India's Journey to the Final

India's campaign in the Champions Trophy 2025 was flawless. They breezed through the group stages and then knocked out Australia in the semi-finals to reach the final. The team, led by Rohit Sharma, demonstrated superb all-around performance throughout the tournament.

India’s victory in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 adds another prestigious trophy to their cabinet. The final was a nail-biting affair, filled with incredible individual performances from both teams. For India, it was another testament to their cricketing dominance on the world stage, with key performances from players like Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, and the ever-reliable Ravindra Jadeja.

This win will be remembered not just for the trophy but for the thrilling chase and the team’s ability to bounce back under pressure. As Indian fans across the globe celebrate, the team will look forward to more glory in the future.