India Masters made history by securing the inaugural International Masters League (IML) 2025 title with a six-wicket victory over West Indies Masters in a thrilling final on Sunday, March 16, 2025. Led by legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar, the India Masters displayed dominance and resilience to clinch this prestigious title at the SVNS International Stadium, where nearly 50,000 fans cheered on the two cricketing powerhouses.
The final match was filled with nostalgia and served as a reminder of cricket’s golden era. With the weight of expectation on their shoulders, the India Masters restricted the West Indies to 148 runs for 7 wickets, setting the stage for their chase for glory. Ambati Rayudu was once again the star of the show, scoring 74 runs off just 50 balls, supported by Tendulkar’s solid innings of 25 runs off 18 balls.
The innings began with Tendulkar, who showcased his renowned strokeplay by scoring two boundaries and launching one six. The crowd was treated to his classic cover drives and vintage batting style, reviving memories of his illustrious career. Rayudu took the mantle from Tendulkar, starting aggressively and reaching his half-century off just 34 balls.
After establishing a significant 67-run opening partnership, Tendulkar was dismissed by Tino Best, but Rayudu continued to march on. He formed another partnership with Gurkeerat Singh Mann, who contributed 14 runs before being dismissed by Ashley Nurse. Despite the loss of wickets, Yuvraj Singh’s arrival added even more hope, deepening the chase for the India Masters.
With the score at 131 runs, four wickets down, the team required just 17 runs from their last 28 balls. It was then Stuart Binny stepped onto the field, hitting two massive sixes, sealing the victory for the India Masters with 16 runs not out. Vinay Kumar was the standout bowler for the India Masters, claiming three wickets for 26 runs, supported by Shahbaz Nadeem, who was instrumental with charming figures of 2/12.
The awards ceremony following the match celebrated not only the champions but also individual achievements throughout the tournament. Rayudu won the Player of the Match award for his outstanding performance, alongside additional accolades such as the Bank of Baroda Masterstroke of the Match and Most Sixes during the final, contributing to his overall prize of ₹50,000 ($605). Shahbaz Nadeem was awarded the Gamechanger of the Match and the Most Economical Bowler title with his impressive economy rate of 3.00, cementing his role as key player for India Masters.
The global cricket community watched as the India Masters took home ₹1 crore ($121,000) for their victory, whereas the West Indies Masters walked away with ₹50 lakh ($60,500) as the runners-up. Further highlighting the competitive spirit, Kumar Sangakkara led the season awards with the Most Fours, totaling 38, and Shane Watson secured the Most Sixes with 25.
Overall, the tournament embodied the rich history and passion tied to cricket, reviving unforgettable memories for fans and players alike, and solidifying the legacy of these legendary cricketers. Tendulkar expressed his gratitude post-match, stating, "C.H.A.M.P.I.O.N.S. From practice sessions to match days, every moment at the @imlt20official seemed like going back in time... I’m grateful to everyone who made this experience so memorable."25
The final scores outlined the compelling match: West Indies Masters 148/7, led by Lendl Simmons with 57 runs and Dwayne Smith with 45, challenged by Vinay Kumar’s 3/26 and Shahbaz Nadeem’s 2/12. India Masters responded solidly, reaching 149 runs for 4 wickets, courtesy of Rayudu’s strong performance and Binny finishing the game.
The spectacle emphasized the importance of camaraderie, sportsmanship, and the thrill of cricket, providing fans with memories to cherish for years to come. Here’s to more thrilling encounters in the cricket world.
