India reaffirmed its dominance in world cricket by securing a thrilling four-wicket victory over New Zealand in the ICC Champions Trophy 2024-25 final. With this win, India maintained its impeccable record in ICC tournaments, further solidifying its stature as a powerhouse in international cricket.
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A Battle of Grit and Precision in ICC Champions Trophy 2024-25
India chased down New Zealand’s competitive total of 251 for 7, reaching 254 for 6 with one over to spare. The final at Dubai International Cricket Stadium saw India’s superior depth and calculated approach overshadow New Zealand’s determined resistance.
New Zealand’s Solid Yet Restrained Innings
Winning the toss proved crucial as New Zealand elected to bat first, looking to set a formidable target. Their start was explosive, with Rachin Ravindra leading the charge, effortlessly scoring 37 off 29 balls in what appeared to be a well-structured powerplay. By the 10-over mark, New Zealand stood at 69 for 1, but India’s spin arsenal gradually turned the tide.
India’s bowlers, particularly Kuldeep Yadav (2-40) and Varun Chakravarthy (2-45), applied relentless pressure during the middle overs. The turn-friendly pitch in Dubai offered limited assistance to spinners, but India’s strategic deployment of slow bowling paid dividends. New Zealand struggled to build partnerships, and despite valiant efforts from Daryl Mitchell (63) and Michael Bracewell (53 off 40), they were restricted to a subpar total.
Bracewell’s late flourish injected some hope, striking three fours and two sixes in the final overs, but India’s disciplined bowling ensured that New Zealand’s total remained within reach.
Rohit Sharma Leads the Charge for India
India’s chase was off to a flying start, with skipper Rohit Sharma demonstrating masterful stroke play. His 76 off 58 balls set the tempo early on, dismantling New Zealand’s pace attack. Alongside Shubman Gill, who provided solid support, India raced to 64 for 0 in the powerplay. However, just as India looked poised for a straightforward victory, New Zealand clawed back into the contest.
Glenn Phillips produced a moment of brilliance with a one-handed catch at extra cover to dismiss Gill, while Michael Bracewell trapped Virat Kohli lbw for just one run. This sudden collapse put India on the back foot, forcing them to rebuild at 122 for 3.
Shreyas Iyer (48) and Axar Patel (26) played crucial roles in steadying the innings, surviving several anxious moments. Iyer, who had two half-centuries in the tournament, benefitted from a dropped catch before eventually falling in the 39th over. With India needing 67 off 68 balls, the game hung in the balance.
Rahul and Jadeja Seal the Victory
With the required run rate hovering around six per over, KL Rahul (34*) and Ravindra Jadeja (12*) held their nerve to see India home. Rahul’s calm approach, coupled with Jadeja’s calculated aggression, ensured there were no last-minute hiccups. Even a late scare from Kyle Jamieson, who removed Hardik Pandya in the 48th over, couldn’t prevent India from marching to victory.
A Triumph Built on Consistency
This victory marked India’s 22nd win in their last 23 completed ICC tournament matches, further underlining their supremacy. Their ability to adapt to conditions, execute game plans effectively, and maintain composure under pressure continues to distinguish them from their competitors.
New Zealand, despite their spirited performance, fell short once again in a global final. Their reliance on spinners proved to be a double-edged sword, as India’s deep batting lineup negated the threat effectively.
Looking Ahead
With two ICC trophies now in their cabinet, India has set a high benchmark for future tournaments. Their relentless pursuit of excellence, combined with the emergence of young talents like Gill and Iyer, paints a promising picture for Indian cricket’s future.
For New Zealand, the focus will shift to regrouping and addressing their inconsistencies in crunch matches. Despite showing immense resilience, they remain on the hunt for an elusive ICC title.
Match Summary:
New Zealand: 251/7 in 50 overs (Mitchell 63, Bracewell 53, Kuldeep 2-40, Varun 2-45)
India: 254/6 in 49 overs (Rohit 76, Iyer 48, Rahul 34*, Bracewell 2-28)
India won by 4 wickets
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Conclusion
India’s triumph in the ICC Champions Trophy 2024 highlights their remarkable depth, tactical adaptability, and ability to handle high-pressure situations. With world-class spinners, a formidable batting lineup, and calm finishers, they continue to set the benchmark in international cricket. This victory cements their position as one of the most dominant teams in modern-day cricket.
