Dubai: Skipper Rohit Sharma delivered a captain’s knock with a brilliant half-century as a determined Team India clinched their third ICC Champions Trophy title with a four-wicket victory over New Zealand in the final on Sunday.
Opting to bowl first after losing his 12th consecutive toss, Rohit’s side displayed disciplined bowling as India’s spinners restricted New Zealand to 251 for seven in 50 overs. Kuldeep Yadav (2/40) and Varun Chakaravarthy (2/45) played pivotal roles in keeping the Kiwi batting lineup in check.
India’s chase of 252 was completed with six balls to spare, thanks to stellar performances by Rohit Sharma (76 off 83 balls) and Shreyas Iyer (48 off 62 balls). The team faced tense moments after being well-placed at 183 for three but briefly stumbling. However, KL Rahul (34 not out off 33 balls) maintained his composure and guided India to victory, supported by Hardik Pandya’s crucial 18-run cameo.
For New Zealand, Daryl Mitchell (63 off 101 balls), Michael Bracewell (53 not out off 40 balls), and Rachin Ravindra (37 off 29 balls) were the key contributors with the bat. Their efforts, however, were not enough to deny India another historic win.
With this triumph, India lifted the Champions Trophy without losing a single match, underscoring their dominance throughout the tournament. This marks India’s third title victory in the competition, following previous wins in 2002 and 2013—an achievement unmatched by any other team.
Brief Scores:
New Zealand: 251/7 in 50 overs (Daryl Mitchell 63, Michael Bracewell 53*, Rachin Ravindra 37; Kuldeep Yadav 2/40, Varun Chakaravarthy 2/45).
India: 254/6 in 49 overs (Rohit Sharma 76, Shreyas Iyer 48; Mitchell Santner 2/46, Michael Bracewell 2/28).
