New Zealand clinched the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 title after achieving significant milestones throughout the tournament, culminating with their final match against India on March 9, 2025, at the Dubai International Stadium. Having opted to bat first, New Zealand managed to post a competitive total of 251 runs for 7 wickets, setting India a challenging target of 252 runs.
The match kicked off with Rohit Sharma's Indian side needing to overcome their history of losing tosses—a record they extended to 15 consecutive defeats when New Zealand's captain, Mitchell Santner, called correctly and decided to bat first. This decision came as India, initially strong contenders, have struggled with their recent form, particularly under pressure during tosses.
New Zealand's batting performance was marked by a standout century from Daryl Mitchell, who top-scored with 63 runs off 101 balls, showcasing resilience amid early setbacks. Following him, Michael Bracewell proved instrumental, finishing not out at 53 runs off just 40 balls, helping to solidify the New Zealand innings. Other contributions included Will Young (15), Rachin Ravindra (37), and Glenn Phillips (34), though key batsman Kane Williamson's early departure due to injury—a quad strain—affected the team's momentum.
Williamson, who had only managed 11 runs off 14 balls before being caught and bowled by Kuldeep Yadav, was unable to continue fielding as Mark Chapman stepped in to replace him. His absence was felt acutely, as New Zealand thrived on his experience. Despite losing early wickets, the partnership between Mitchell and Bracewell steadied the ship, pushing their total to 251, with contributions from Latham (14) and Phillips adding to the scoreboard.
India's bowling attack performed commendably, focusing on managing the flow of runs. Varun Chakravarthy led the wicket-taking for India with 2 wickets for 45 runs, joined by Yadav—who claimed 2 for 40—and the pace of Mohammed Shami (1 wicket for 74 runs). Ravindra Jadeja took the other wicket, restricting the Kiwis effectively across their 50 overs.
Chasing the target, India's innings commenced with promise led by Rohit Sharma, who blazed to 76 runs off 83 balls, his half-century coming off just 41 deliveries. Sharma's performance, characterized by aggressive intent, set the tone early on as India raced to 64 runs without losing any wickets within the first 10 overs. Yet, the middle order faltered; Shubman Gill fell for 31 runs, caught by Phillips off Santner's bowling, and Virat Kohli was dismissed for just 1 run. The Indian team soon found themselves down to 141 for 3 by the 31st over.
Despite Sharma's resistance, the Indian batting lineup could not maintain the pressure as they lost steam. Shreyas Iyer's arrival provided some stability, scoring 21 runs off 34 balls, and Axar Patel added 7 runs, but the team overall lacked partnerships to sustain the chase. Former captain Sharma's eventual stumping marked the decline of India's hopes, as the Indian squad fell short of the target, finishing their innings at 141 runs for 3 wickets after 31 overs—with New Zealand's bowlers effectively capitalizing on the pressure built by Sharma's exit.
The total prize money awarded during the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 reflects the event's significance, with the champion team receiving ₹20 crore (approximately $2.24 million) and the runners-up taking home ₹12 crore (about $1.12 million). Both teams' aspirations were not just about the trophy, but also the considerable rewards associated with their on-field performances.
Throughout the tournament, it was evident India and New Zealand approached this final with differing backgrounds; India aiming to add to their illustrious trophy cabinet and New Zealand seeking to establish themselves as formidable contenders on the world stage. With this victory, New Zealand not only etched their name atop this edition of the Champions Trophy but also ensured their rethink of strategy moving forward as they gear up for new challenges.
This final was not just about cricket but the heart of competition encapsulated through the struggle, skill, and determination shown by both sides. The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has now concluded, marking another memorable chapter for cricket fans worldwide, who witnessed both the thrill of the game and the unexpected turns it can take. Asia and New Zealand recapture their status and ignite new fervor as they prepare for upcoming events.
With the competition concluded, the focus will shift to future cricketing action and preparations for new international challenges, but for now, the memories of the 2025 Champions Trophy will remain fresh, marking its place firmly within the annals of cricket history.