India 254 for 6 (Rohit 76, Iyer 48, Rahul 34, Bracewell 2-28) beat New Zealand 251 for 7 (Mitchell 63, Bracewell 53, Kuldeep 2-40, Varun 2-45) by four wickets*
India clinched their third Champions Trophy title with a hard-fought four-wicket victory over New Zealand in Dubai. Despite New Zealand’s determined defense, India’s quality and depth proved too strong, as they maintained their unbeaten streak in a second consecutive ICC tournament. The victory means India now holds two of the four ICC trophies, having finished as runners-up in the other two. Notably, they have won 22 of their last 23 completed ICC matches.
Spinners Restrict New Zealand After Strong Start
New Zealand started aggressively after winning the toss—breaking India’s streak of 15 consecutive ODI toss losses—reaching 69 for 1 in the powerplay. However, India’s world-class spin attack pulled things back, with Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy leading the way. On a pitch that offered less turn than earlier games in the tournament, India’s spinners bowled 38 overs, conceding just 144 runs while taking five wickets. Michael Bracewell (53 off 40) provided late fireworks, helping New Zealand post a competitive 251 for 7.
India’s Depth Prevails Despite New Zealand’s Fightback
India responded with an equally strong start, reaching 64 for 0 in the powerplay, thanks to a 105-run opening stand between Rohit Sharma (76) and Shubman Gill. However, New Zealand’s spinners capitalized on increasing turn—averaging 3.4 degrees in the second innings compared to 2 degrees in the first—and put India under pressure.
While all Indian batters contributed (with scores ranging from Rohit’s 76 to Hardik Pandya’s 18), none could finish the chase decisively. However, India’s remarkable depth came through once again, as KL Rahul (34*) and Ravindra Jadeja guided them home with one over to spare.
With this victory, India cements its dominance in international cricket, adding yet another ICC trophy to their illustrious cabinet.
