India Crowned Champions Trophy Kings Again: Rohit Sharma’s Masterclass and Spin Sorcery Seal Historic Third Title
Dubai, March 9, 2025 — In a thrilling climax to the ICC Champions Trophy, India etched their name into the record books for a third time, overcoming New Zealand by four wickets in a nerve-jangling final. Captain Rohit Sharma’s commanding 76 and a tactical spin masterclass propelled India to a landmark victory, cementing their status as the tournament’s most dominant force.
A Captain’s Knock and Spin Brilliance
Chasing a challenging 252, India’s campaign was ignited by Rohit Sharma’s explosive start. The skipper bludgeoned six boundaries and a towering six off pacer Nathan Smith, racing to a 41-ball half-century. His 105-run opening stand with Shubman Gill (31) laid a fiery foundation. Though New Zealand’s spinners briefly stalled the charge—Glenn Phillips’ acrobatic catch dismissing Gill, and Michael Bracewell trapping Virat Kohli (1) lbw—Rohit’s composure kept India in control.
However, the Black Caps fought back. Rohit’s dismissal, stumped by Tom Latham off Rachin Ravindra, triggered a mini-collapse. Shreyas Iyer (48) and Axar Patel fell quickly, but KL Rahul (34*) anchored the innings with unflappable resolve. Partnering with Ravindra Jadeja, who smashed the winning boundary, Rahul guided India home with six balls to spare, sparking euphoric celebrations among a partisan crowd.
Spin Dominance Restricts New Zealand
India’s spin quartet earlier stifled New Zealand on a sluggish Dubai pitch. Varun Chakravarthy (2/45) and Kuldeep Yadav (2/40) exploited the conditions masterfully, while Axar Patel and Jadeja maintained relentless pressure. Despite Daryl Mitchell’s gritty 63 and Bracewell’s late blitz (53* off 40), the Black Caps could only muster 251/7. The absence of injured pacer Matt Henry and captain Kane Williamson’s quad strain—limiting him to 11 runs and no fielding role—proved decisive.
Legacy of Supremacy
This triumph marks India’s third Champions Trophy title (2002, 2013, 2025), surpassing Australia’s tally of two. Remaining unbeaten across the tournament, the world’s top-ranked ODI side showcased tactical brilliance, particularly their bold decision to deploy four spinners in the latter stages. “Adapting to conditions is our strength,” said Rohit post-match. “The spinners were phenomenal, and KL’s calmness at the end sealed it.”
FAQs: India Won the Champions Trophy 2025
Q: How many Champions Trophy titles has India won?
A: India has won three titles (2002, 2013, 2025), the most by any team.
Q: Who were India’s standout performers in the final?
A: Rohit Sharma (76) and spinners Varun Chakravarthy (2/45) and Kuldeep Yadav (2/40) starred, while KL Rahul’s unbeaten 34 guided the chase.
Q: Why did New Zealand struggle in the final?
A: Key injuries to Matt Henry and Kane Williamson and India’s spin dominance restricted New Zealand’s momentum.
Q: Where was the final held?
A: The final took place at Dubai International Stadium, UAE.
Q: Did India lose any matches in the tournament?
A: No, India remained unbeaten throughout the competition, winning all matches.
Q: What was India’s winning strategy?
A: Deploying four spinners on Dubai’s sluggish pitch stifled New Zealand’s batting and capitalized on turn-friendly conditions.
With this victory, India’s white-ball supremacy shines brighter than ever, blending leadership brilliance, tactical innovation, and clutch performances on the grandest stage.