In a final filled with tension, drama, and moments of brilliance, India emerged victorious over New Zealand to claim their third ICC Champions Trophy title at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. The much-anticipated clash saw India triumph by four wickets, chasing down a target of 252 in 49 overs to etch their name in history once again.
New Zealand’s Strong Resistance
New Zealand, despite being the underdogs against a formidable Indian side, put up a spirited fight. Having won the toss and opting to bat, they started explosively, racing to 69 for 1 in the powerplay. Rachin Ravindra dazzled early with a stroke-filled 37 off 29 balls, unsettling the Indian bowling attack. However, India’s spinners gradually took control, bringing the game back in their favor.
On a surface that had provided minimal assistance to spinners throughout the tournament, India’s quartet of Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakravarthy, Ravindra Jadeja, and Axar Patel delivered a masterclass in control and precision. The four spinners bowled a combined 38 overs, conceding only 144 runs while picking up five wickets. Kuldeep (2 for 40) and Varun (2 for 45) played crucial roles in breaking key partnerships.
New Zealand, struggling to maintain their initial momentum, relied on Daryl Mitchell’s steady 63 and a late surge from Michael Bracewell, whose 53 off 40 balls injected much-needed runs at the death. With the pacers unable to extract significant movement, Mohammed Shami’s crucial wicket of Mitchell ensured India restricted New Zealand to a manageable total of 251 for 7.
Rohit Sharma’s Dominance Sets Up India’s Chase
Chasing 252, India got off to a flying start, thanks to Rohit Sharma’s aggressive approach. He and Shubman Gill stitched together a 105-run opening stand, with Rohit smashing a commanding 76. However, New Zealand’s spinners clawed back into the contest, exploiting the increasing turn on the surface.
The game took a dramatic turn when Glenn Phillips plucked a stunning one-handed catch to dismiss Gill, followed immediately by Michael Bracewell trapping Virat Kohli lbw for just one run. With India suddenly reeling, Rohit attempted to steady the ship but fell to Ravindra’s spin, leaving India at a precarious 122 for 3.
Shreyas Iyer and Axar Patel stitched together a vital 61-run partnership, with Iyer surviving some tense moments, including a dropped catch by Jamieson. However, just when India looked comfortable, Iyer departed in the 39th over, leaving the equation at 67 runs needed from 68 balls.
Rahul and Jadeja Steer India to Victory
With the required run rate hovering around a run-a-ball, KL Rahul anchored the innings alongside Ravindra Jadeja. Despite a late hiccup when Hardik Pandya fell to Kyle Jamieson’s sharp bouncer in the 48th over, India’s depth once again proved decisive. Rahul’s composed 34 and Jadeja’s calm presence ensured India crossed the line with one over to spare.
A Dominant Era for India
With this victory, India extended their remarkable dominance in ICC events, having now won 22 of their last 23 completed matches in major tournaments. This triumph also marked their second consecutive undefeated ICC campaign, showcasing their unparalleled depth and quality.
India now hold two of the four ICC trophies, having reached the final in the other two events, reinforcing their status as a powerhouse in world cricket. Their ability to adapt to conditions, coupled with an enviable blend of experience and young talent, has set them apart from the competition.
For New Zealand, it was another heartbreak in an ICC final, but their resilience and fighting spirit earned them admiration. Despite facing a superior opposition, they ensured the final was a nail-biting contest, proving their mettle on the grandest stage.
Manbilas Singh is a talented writer and journalist who focuses on the finer details in every story and values integrity above everything. A self-proclaimed sleuth, he strives to expose the fine print behind seemingly mundane activities and aims to uncover the truth that is hidden from the general public. In his time away from work, he is a music aficionado and a nerd who revels in video & board games, books and Formula 1.
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