Sports Desk
10 March
Journalist & Research Analysist
Sandeep Dhand Ludhiana
India created history by winning the ICC Champions Trophy for the third time, defeating New Zealand by four wickets in a thrilling final. This victory cements India’s dominance in world cricket, as no other team has won this tournament three times. The team remained unbeaten throughout the competition, showcasing exceptional skills and determination.
A Confident Chase Seals the Victory
Chasing a competitive target of 252, the team displayed confidence and composure, successfully reaching the total with six wickets down and one over to spare. The captain played a match-winning knock of 76 runs off 83 balls, setting a solid foundation at the top. His innings was crucial in keeping the chase on track despite some middle-order hiccups.
The opening partnership gave a flying start, adding 105 runs before the first wicket fell. The other opener contributed 31 runs, providing stability in the powerplay overs. However, a couple of quick wickets, including that of the star batter at just one run, put pressure on the middle order. Despite the setback, key players stepped up, with one scoring 48 and another contributing 29 runs. Towards the end, a composed and unbeaten 34 ensured that the team crossed the finish line without further troubles.
Spin Magic Restricts New Zealand
Earlier in the match, the bowlers did an outstanding job, restricting New Zealand to 251 for 7 in their allotted 50 overs. The pitch offered assistance to the spinners, who took full advantage of the conditions. The two primary spinners bowled exceptionally well, picking up crucial wickets at key moments. Their disciplined bowling kept the opposition batters under pressure, preventing them from accelerating in the middle overs.
New Zealand started well, scoring 69 runs in the first 10 overs while losing just one wicket. However, the introduction of spin turned the game around. A key breakthrough in the sixth over saw an opener dismissed, followed by two quick wickets in the 11th and 12th overs, shifting the momentum completely. At one stage, New Zealand was struggling at 75 for 3.
Despite this, two middle-order batters played responsible knocks, stitching together an important partnership. One scored 63 off 101 balls, while the other played an attacking knock of 53 off just 40 deliveries. Their efforts helped New Zealand post a competitive total, but the lack of boundaries in the middle overs due to disciplined bowling kept them from reaching a bigger score.
Game-Changing Moments
Several moments defined this final. The biggest turning point came when the spinners picked up back-to-back wickets in the middle overs, halting New Zealand’s progress. The pitch conditions favored slow bowling, and the spinners made the most of it, giving away just 144 runs in 38 overs combined.
Another crucial moment was the dismissal of a well-set batter who was looking dangerous. A brilliant return catch by one of the spinners ensured that New Zealand couldn’t build momentum towards the end of their innings.
In the chase, the captain’s half-century provided a perfect platform. However, when a couple of wickets fell in quick succession, the match seemed to be slipping away. That’s when the middle order steadied the innings, ensuring there was no panic in the run chase. A crucial six in the 46th over shifted the pressure back on the bowling side, and the chase was comfortably completed in the 49th over.
A Historic Achievement
This victory is special not only because it’s the third ICC Champions Trophy title but also because the team remained unbeaten throughout the tournament. Winning every match in a high-stakes competition is a testament to the team’s consistency, skill, and determination.
Additionally, this is the second ICC trophy won under the current captain’s leadership, following the recent T20 World Cup triumph. This cements his legacy as one of the most successful leaders in the team’s history.
His performance in the final also holds historical significance. His 76-run knock is his highest score in an ICC tournament final, placing him alongside some of the great captains who have played crucial innings in championship matches.
Reactions and Celebrations
The victory sparked celebrations across the country, with fans, former players, and officials congratulating the team for their remarkable achievement.
A statement on social media praised the team’s all-round performance, highlighting the disciplined bowling and fearless batting approach that defined the campaign. Many cricketing legends applauded the team’s ability to handle pressure in a high-stakes final.
Several officials and leaders also extended their congratulations, calling the victory a moment of pride. Social media was flooded with celebratory messages, videos, and images from the match, with fans reliving key moments.
What’s Next?
With this victory, attention now shifts to upcoming international tournaments. This win will give the team a confidence boost ahead of future ICC events, strengthening their position as one of the most dominant teams in world cricket.
The focus will now be on maintaining this momentum in bilateral series and preparing for the next global competition. The current squad has showcased remarkable depth, with contributions from both experienced players and young talents. If they continue this form, more titles could be on the horizon.
For now, though, the team and fans will take a moment to celebrate this historic win—one that will be remembered for years to come.