Rohit Sharma and his men made history by leading India to their third ICC Champions Trophy in a thrilling encounter against New Zealand on Sunday. The Men in Blue showed resolve and class as they chased 252 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, pulling off a four-wicket triumph and adding a feather to their rich cricketing history.
A HISTORIC TRIUMPH
With this triumph, India are now the highest-winning team in the history of the Champions Trophy with their third title following past wins in 2002 (tied with Sri Lanka) and 2013 (captained by MS Dhoni). The victory also witnessed India making a comeback on the international stage after their 2024 T20 World Cup success.
The final was a confrontation between two teams that have a deep history in the tournament. While New Zealand emerged champions in 2000 (the tournament being referred to then as the ICC Knockout Trophy) after defeating India in Nairobi, this time India got revenge and prevented the Kiwis from claiming their second ICC limited-overs trophy.
INDIA’S ROAD TO VICTORY
Batting first, New Zealand posted a challenging total of 252, courtesy of a dogged effort from their middle order. But India’s bowlers, spearheaded by a tight attack, made sure that the total was still within reach.
As a counter, India’s batting line-up proved classy and composed with their skipper Rohit Sharma at the forefront. The middle order steadied the chase, and the lower-order batsmen finished strong, securing India’s victory with wickets in hand.
THE ROAD AHEAD
This Champions Trophy triumph consolidates India’s dominance in global cricket and is a testimony to their skill to play under pressure. With a combination of veteran stalwarts and upcoming young players, India has cemented its position as the team to beat in international cricket.
While the fiestas ensue throughout the nation, people are now targeting the future ICC events, with India hoping to further consolidate their success and uphold their dominance on top of cricket’s pedestal.
