India Faces New Zealand in Tense Champions Trophy Final Showdown

Dubai, UAE — In a gripping finale to the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, India faces New Zealand, chasing a target of 252 runs. New Zealand managed to post 251 runs, thanks to half-centuries from Daryl Mitchell and Michael Bracewell, while India’s spinners effectively limited their scoring during critical middle overs.

The Black Caps opted to bat after winning the toss but suffered an early setback with fast bowler Matt Henry sidelined due to a shoulder injury. India, fresh off a convincing semi-final victory over Australia, retained an unchanged lineup reliant on their robust spin attack. Varun Chakravarthy and Kuldeep Yadav led India’s bowling effort, each taking two wickets and maintaining pressure throughout the innings.

Mitchell anchored the New Zealand innings with a solid 63 runs off 101 balls, while Bracewell provided a late burst with an unbeaten 53 off just 40 balls. Despite struggles early in their innings, the Kiwis managed to recover and set a competitive total, which became achievable for India despite their recent batting woes.

Initially, India appeared in control, led by an opening partnership of 105 runs between Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill. Rohit fell for 76 after a stumping mishap, while Gill was dismissed by a spectacular one-handed catch from Glenn Phillips. This sudden collapse saw India lose three quick wickets for only 17 runs, putting them in a precarious position at 122 for 3.

The New Zealand bowlers, particularly spinners Mitchell Santner and Michael Bracewell, tightened their grip, making it increasingly challenging for India to maintain their chase. Virat Kohli‘s brief stay ended as he fell for just one run, leaving India needing to regroup if they look to secure their third Champions Trophy title.

Mitchell and wicketkeeper Tom Latham had formed a crucial partnership, ensuring New Zealand’s innings gradually climbed past 250 runs. As the innings progressed, Chakravarthy and Yadav worked methodically to stifle the New Zealand batsmen, leading to a tense finish.

“We played some excellent cricket,” said Varun Chakravarthy after the innings. “The spinners were able to dictate terms and kept the run rate under control.”

India’s focus now turns to their response. With a relatively strong batting lineup, they remain in pursuit of a historic third trophy, having previously won in 2002 (shared with Sri Lanka) and 2013. The outcome, hanging in the balance as wickets continue to fall, keeps both teams locked in fierce competition.