Introduction

The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final between India vs New Zealand was a clash of cricketing titans. Played at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, this high-stakes encounter saw two of the world’s best teams battling for glory. India vs New Zealand live match attracted millions of viewers as fans eagerly watched whether India national cricket team could clinch their third Champions Trophy title or if New Zealand cricket team would script history.

This thrilling final delivered breathtaking moments, game-changing performances, and unforgettable highlights, making it one of the greatest ICC Champions Trophy finals ever. In this in-depth analysis, we break down key match highlights, player performances, tactical decisions, and turning points that shaped the outcome.

Toss and Team Lineups: A Crucial Start

Winning the toss in a big final can be decisive, especially on Dubai’s dry pitch, which traditionally favors teams batting first. New Zealand won the toss and elected to bat, hoping to set a formidable target for India national cricket team.

India Playing XI for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Final

• Rohit Sharma (Captain)
• Shubman Gill
• Virat Kohli
• Shreyas Iyer
• KL Rahul (Wicketkeeper)
• Hardik Pandya
• Ravindra Jadeja
• Kuldeep Yadav
• Mohammed Siraj
• Jasprit Bumrah
• Varun Chakravarthy

New Zealand Playing XI for the Final

• Rachin Ravindra
• Will Young
• Kane Williamson (Captain)
• Daryl Mitchell
• Glenn Phillips
• Tom Latham (Wicketkeeper)
• Michael Bracewell
• Mitchell Santner
• Tim Southee
• Lockie Ferguson
• Trent Boult

With New Zealand vs India live match underway, expectations were high for a competitive final.

New Zealand’s Innings: A Cautious Start Followed by a Middle-Order Collapse

The New Zealand cricket team started cautiously against India’s disciplined pace attack. Rachin Ravindra and Will Young put up a 57-run opening stand, countering the swing and seam movement of Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj.

However, India vs New Zealand final match took a dramatic turn when Kuldeep Yadav was introduced into the attack. His deceptive spin outfoxed Ravindra, breaking the opening partnership. Soon after, Kane Williamson fell cheaply to Varun Chakravarthy, and suddenly, New Zealand was struggling at 75/3.

Middle-Order Fightback by Mitchell and Bracewell

While wickets tumbled, Daryl Mitchell displayed patience, scoring a well-crafted 63 off 101 balls. His partnership with Michael Bracewell (53 off 40 balls)* helped New Zealand reach a respectable total of 251/7 in 50 overs.

India’s Run Chase: A Dominant Start and Mid-Innings Stumbles

Chasing 252 in a high-pressure ICC Champions Trophy final, India’s openers Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill gave their team a solid foundation with a 105-run opening stand. Sharma played aggressively, reaching his half-century in just 41 balls.

New Zealand Strikes Back with Spin

Just as India looked in control, New Zealand’s spin attack turned the game around:

• Mitchell Santner dismissed Shubman Gill (37), thanks to a stunning catch by Glenn Phillips.
• Michael Bracewell trapped Virat Kohli lbw for just 1 run, sending shockwaves through the Indian camp.
• Rohit Sharma fell to Rachin Ravindra, getting stumped after scoring a crucial 76.

With India reduced to 122/3, the pressure was back on the Indian middle order.

Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul’s Match-Winning Partnership

At a critical juncture, Shreyas Iyer (48) and KL Rahul (34 not out)* held their nerves, guiding India towards victory. Their 74-run stand ensured that the team remained on track.

Despite losing Iyer in the final overs, Rahul’s calm approach sealed the win, as India chased down the target with six wickets in hand and one over to spare.

Key Performances from the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Final

1. Rohit Sharma’s Match-Winning Knock

• 76 off 55 balls
• Aggressive start set the foundation
• Led from the front as captain

2. Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy’s Impactful Bowling

• Kuldeep: 2 wickets for 43 runs
• Varun: 2 wickets for 45 runs
• Restricted New Zealand’s scoring rate

3. Michael Bracewell’s Late Surge

• 53 off 40 balls*
• Helped New Zealand cross 250

4. Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul’s Finishing Touch

• Iyer: 48 off 55 balls
• Rahul: 34 off 39 balls*
• Controlled pressure situations effectively

Why This Victory Matters for India

Winning the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final solidifies India’s dominance in ICC tournaments. This victory marks India’s third Champions Trophy win, making them one of the most successful teams in the tournament’s history.

What’s Next for India and New Zealand?

• India: Their next focus will be on the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 and the World Test Championship final.
• New Zealand: Despite losing the final, their team showed resilience, proving they remain strong contenders in global cricket.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who won the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final?

India won the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final, defeating New Zealand by four wickets.

2. Who was the top scorer in the India vs New Zealand final match?

Rohit Sharma was the top scorer with 76 off 55 balls.

3. How many times has India won the ICC Champions Trophy?

India has won the ICC Champions Trophy three times – in 2002, 2013, and 2025.

4. What was New Zealand’s total in the final?

New Zealand scored 251/7 in 50 overs.

5. Who were the key bowlers in the final?

• Kuldeep Yadav (2/43)
• Varun Chakravarthy (2/45)
• Michael Bracewell (1/38)

6. Where was the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final played?

The final was played at Dubai International Cricket Stadium, UAE.

Conclusion

The India vs New Zealand ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final was a match to remember, filled with thrilling moments, exceptional performances, and tactical brilliance. With India clinching their third Champions Trophy title, they once again proved their supremacy in world cricket.

This victory will be etched in the history books as one of the greatest final matches in the Champions Trophy’s legacy. Fans will cherish this match for years to come, as India celebrates yet another ICC triumph! 🚀🏆