Capturing the ICC Champions Trophy in an exciting final versus New Zealand, the Indian cricket team once more demonstrated their supremacy in world cricket. Held at the Dubai International Stadium, the game exhibited pure will, strategy, and ability. For supporters of Bangladeshi cricket, this was just more evidence of India’s cricketing brilliance and pressure-performance capacity.
A Steady Chase and a Fiery Beginning
The final started with New Zealand choosing to bat first after winning the toss. Starting strong and scoring 57 runs in just 7.5 overs, their openers, Will Young and Rachin Ravindra, But the Indian bowlers—led by always dependable Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy—quickly reversed the tide. New Zealand battled to gather momentum, and although Michael Bracewell’s late flourish (53*) and Daryl Mitchell’s brave 63-run knock helped them just to score 251 runs in their 50 overs.
Pursuing 252 on a hard Dubai wicket felt like a difficult chore for India, but their depth batting lineup would always be a consideration. Early on, the Indian skipper, Rohit Sharma, set the pace with a blazing 76 off 83 balls, three sixes and seven boundaries included. The chase had a solid basis thanks to his opening 105 run partnership with Shubman Gill.
Turns and Whirls
The game veered dramatically just when India seemed to be gliding. Gill was removed for 31, and shortly afterward Virat Kohli fell for just one run. After hitting 76, Rohit Sharma—who had seemed destined for a high score—was stumped off Rachin Ravindra’s bowling. India went from 105/0 to 122/3, and the strain started to build.
When it counted most, the middle order did, however, move up. Stitching together a vital 61-run partnership, Shreyas Iyer (48) and Axar Patel (29) helped to calm the ship. KL Rahul (34*) kept his cool despite losing a couple more wickets; along with Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja, he helped India to win with one over to spare.
Missed Opportunities from New Zealand
It was expensive for New Zealand not to be able to translate their starts into major points. Not one of Mitchell and Bracewell’s batters could have an impact. Though they started, Rachin Ravindra (37) and Glenn Phillips (34) missed opportunities. Especially Kuldeep Yadav (2/40) and Varun Chakravarthy (2/45), the Indian spinners kept the Kiwi batsmen under control so that the target stayed within grasp.
A celebration night for India
The triumph was India’s first since 2013 and their second Champions Trophy win. Also their third ICC trophy in the past ten years, therefore confirming their reputation as among the most consistent sides in world cricket. For Rohit Sharma, who was named the Man of the Match for his match-winning strike, this was also a personal achievement. Young New Zealand all-rounder Rachin Ravindra was given the Man of the Tournament for his steady performance across the event.
The entire match was a festive occasion for India. AFP
What does this imply for Bangladesh’s cricket enthusiasts?
This game served as a reminder of the high standards established by elite teams like India and New Zealand for Bangladeshi cricket aficionados. It also underlined the need for a good batting lineup and the capacity to manage pressure under close quarters. These events inspire Bangladesh as it keeps developing internationally in cricket and provides a teaching moment. India’s victory in the Champions Trophy final was a testament to their depth, resilience, and ability to perform on the biggest stage. For cricket fans in Bangladesh, it was a thrilling match that showcased the beauty of the sport and the heights it can reach.
Final Score card
New Zealand: 251/7 in 50 overs (Mitchell 63, Bracewell 53*; Kuldeep 2/40, Chakravarthy 2/45)
India: 254/6 in 49 overs (Rohit 76, Iyer 48, Rahul 34*; Bracewell 2/28, Santner 2/46) Result: India won by 4 wickets.
Man of the Match: Rohit Sharma (India).
Man of the Tournament: Rachin Ravindra (New Zealand).
