India Clinch ICC Champions Trophy 2025; Virat Kohli Declares Team is “Ready to Take on the World”

Dubai, 09-03-2025— India scripted history yet again, securing their third ICC Champions Trophy title with a thrilling four-wicket victory over New Zealand in the final at the Dubai International Stadium on Sunday. With this win, India not only reaffirmed its dominance in white-ball cricket but also clinched its second consecutive ICC title, having previously won the T20 World Cup.

Following the triumphant victory, Indian batting stalwart Virat Kohli expressed his elation over the team’s performance and lauded the contributions of key players, particularly Shubman Gill, Hardik Pandya, and Shreyas Iyer. In his post-match address, Kohli confidently asserted that the Indian squad is “ready to take on the world for the next eight years.”

Winning the toss, New Zealand elected to bat first and got off to a steady start with an opening stand of 57 runs between Will Young (15) and Rachin Ravindra (37 off 29 balls, four boundaries and a six). However, India’s spin duo of Kuldeep Yadav (2/40) and Varun Chakravarthy (2/45) applied pressure, restricting the Kiwis to 75/3.

Despite the early setbacks, New Zealand’s middle-order batters Daryl Mitchell (63 off 101 balls, three fours) and Michael Bracewell (53* off 40 balls, three fours and two sixes) stabilized the innings, propelling their team to a competitive total of 251/7 in 50 overs.

India’s bowling attack, led by Kuldeep and Chakravarthy, ensured that New Zealand never ran away with the game. While Mohammed Shami picked up a wicket, he proved expensive, conceding 74 runs in his nine-over spell.

Chasing 252, India got off to a solid start, courtesy of a 105-run opening partnership between captain Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill. While Gill contributed 31 off 50 balls with a six, it was Rohit’s fluent 76 off 83 deliveries, studded with seven boundaries and three sixes, that set the foundation for India’s chase.

Despite a mini-collapse that saw the dismissals of Gill, Kohli, and Rohit in quick succession, Shreyas Iyer (48 off 62 balls, two fours and two sixes) and Axar Patel (29 off 40 balls) stitched together a crucial 61-run stand, steadying the innings.

With the finish line in sight, KL Rahul (34* off 33 balls, one four and one six) and Hardik Pandya (18) ensured India got over the line with an over to spare, sealing a famous victory with six wickets in hand.

New Zealand’s Michael Bracewell (2/28) and Mitchell Santner (2/46) were the standout bowlers for the Black Caps, but their efforts were not enough to stop India from claiming the title.

Speaking in the post-match presentation, Virat Kohli expressed his pride in the team’s achievements, highlighting India’s hunger to win major ICC tournaments.

“It has been an amazing journey. After a tough Australian tour (Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25), we were determined to bounce back and win a major tournament. To lift the Champions Trophy is truly special,” Kohli remarked.

He further emphasized the depth of talent in the Indian squad and the invaluable role of senior players in nurturing the younger generation.

“There is so much talent in the dressing room. These guys are pushing themselves to improve, and as senior players, we are just happy to guide them and share our experience. Everyone has stepped up at some point during this tournament, and that’s what makes this Indian team so formidable. The effort we put in during practice sessions has paid off, and it feels incredible to see the results,” Kohli added.

Kohli reserved special praise for Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, and Hardik Pandya for their impactful performances throughout the tournament.

“Shubman has been outstanding, Shreyas has played some crucial knocks, KL has taken up the finishing role brilliantly, and Hardik has been phenomenal with the bat. It’s a complete team effort, and that’s what makes this victory even more satisfying,” he said.

Despite the joyous occasion, Kohli expressed sympathy for New Zealand’s loss, particularly for his close friend and Kiwi skipper Kane Williamson.

“New Zealand is a team we have always admired. Given their limited talent pool, they execute their plans brilliantly and remain highly competitive. They are easily the best fielding unit and always back their bowlers. It is unfortunate to see my good friend Kane end up on the losing side, but they played exceptionally well,” Kohli concluded.

With this victory, India has reinforced its status as a cricketing powerhouse, and Kohli’s words serve as a testament to the team’s hunger for continued success. As India sets its sights on future global tournaments, the blend of seasoned campaigners and emerging stars ensures that the Men in Blue remain a force to be reckoned with in world cricket.

New Zealand: 251/7 (Daryl Mitchell 63, Michael Bracewell 53*; Kuldeep Yadav 2/40, Varun Chakravarthy 2/45)

India: 252/4 in 49 overs (Rohit Sharma 76, Shreyas Iyer 48; Michael Bracewell 2/28, Mitchell Santner 2/46),India won by 6 wickets.