In a thrilling culmination of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, India and New Zealand faced off at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on March 9, 2025. This encounter not only showcased the prowess of two cricketing giants but also added a significant chapter to their storied rivalry. The match was a testament to strategic brilliance, individual performances, and the ever-evolving dynamics of international cricket.
Prelude to the Final
Both teams entered the final with compelling narratives. India, under the astute leadership of Rohit Sharma, had displayed impeccable form throughout the tournament, remaining unbeaten and asserting dominance over their opponents. Their journey included a notable victory against New Zealand in the group stages, reinforcing their status as favorites. Conversely, New Zealand, led by the versatile Mitchell Santner, showcased resilience and tactical acumen, particularly in their semi-final triumph over South Africa. However, a significant setback loomed as their star pacer, Matt Henry, was sidelined due to a shoulder injury sustained during the semi-final. This development necessitated the inclusion of Nathan Smith, adding an element of unpredictability to their bowling attack.
Toss and Initial Strategies
Mitchell Santner won the toss and elected to bat first, a decision influenced by the nature of the pitch and the historical challenges associated with chasing under pressure in finals. He remarked on the quality of the wicket and the atmosphere, acknowledging the significant presence of Indian supporters. Rohit Sharma, maintaining composure, expressed confidence in his team’s adaptability, emphasizing their preparedness to perform irrespective of the toss outcome.
New Zealand’s Innings: A Tale of Momentum Shifts
New Zealand’s innings commenced with promise. Openers Will Young and Rachin Ravindra exhibited positive intent, propelling the team to 69 for 1 after the initial 10 overs. However, the introduction of India’s spin duo, Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja, precipitated a shift in momentum. Kuldeep’s mastery was evident as he dismissed Ravindra and the seasoned Kane Williamson in quick succession, reducing New Zealand to 75 for 3. Jadeja complemented this effort with a miserly spell, exemplifying control and precision.
Amidst this turbulence, Daryl Mitchell anchored the innings with resilience. His half-century, albeit the slowest of his career, underscored the challenging conditions and the significance of his role in stabilizing the innings. A crucial partnership ensued between Mitchell and Glenn Phillips, adding 43 runs and steering New Zealand past the 150-run mark. Phillips’ aggressive approach, characterized by assertive stroke play, injected momentum into the innings. However, his dismissal by Varun Chakravarthy, who exploited his mystery spin to effect, curtailed the acceleration.
The latter stages witnessed Michael Bracewell’s impactful cameo. His brisk half-century off 39 balls was instrumental in propelling New Zealand to a competitive total of 251 for 7. Bracewell’s innings was a blend of calculated aggression and opportunistic shot selection, providing the impetus required in the death overs.
India’s Response: Chasing History
Pursuing a target of 252, India approached the chase with a blend of caution and aggression. Openers Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill laid a solid foundation, exhibiting technical proficiency and shot-making flair. Their partnership was characterized by swift running between the wickets and authoritative boundaries, reflecting their intent to assert dominance early in the innings.
The departure of Rohit Sharma, induced by a sharp delivery from Kyle Jamieson, introduced Virat Kohli to the crease. Kohli, on the cusp of surpassing Kumar Sangakkara to become the second-highest run-scorer in ODI history, showcased his trademark elegance and composure. His partnership with Gill was pivotal, as they meticulously navigated the middle overs, countering New Zealand’s spin threat posed by Santner and Bracewell.
Shubman Gill’s innings was a masterclass in pacing a chase. His century was a testament to his temperament and shot selection, seamlessly blending orthodox strokes with innovative shots. Gill’s ability to rotate the strike and capitalize on scoring opportunities ensured that the required run rate remained within manageable bounds.
As the innings progressed, New Zealand’s bowlers, despite their relentless efforts, struggled to break the burgeoning partnership. Kohli’s dismissal, falling short of his half-century, momentarily provided New Zealand with an opening. However, Shreyas Iyer’s arrival quelled any burgeoning anxiety. Iyer’s aggressive approach, marked by crisp boundaries and assertive running, complemented Gill’s anchoring role.
The defining moment materialized when Gill, with a deft flick to the leg side, secured the winning runs, etching his name into the annals of Indian cricket with an unbeaten 123. India clinched the title with seven wickets in hand and several overs to spare, underscoring their dominance in the tournament.
Historical Context: A Rivalry Renewed
The India-New Zealand cricket rivalry has been characterized by closely contested matches and mutual respect. In ICC tournaments, both teams have shared honors, each securing six victories against the other across World Cups and Champions Trophy encounters.
Notably, New Zealand had previously bested India in the 2000 ICC KnockOut Trophy final and the 2021 World Test Championship final, asserting their mettle in high-stakes matches. Conversely, India had triumphed over New Zealand in the 2023 World Cup semi-final, showcasing their resilience and big-match temperament.
