India vs New Zealand: Who Will Lift the Champions Trophy 2025?
Introduction
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 came to an electrifying end with an intense final match between two cricketing giants — India and New Zealand. Held at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground, London, the final match witnessed an intense battle filled with exceptional cricketing skills, nail-biting moments, and breathtaking performances from both teams. Cricket enthusiasts from around the globe were glued to their screens as India and New Zealand locked horns in a bid to claim the prestigious Champions Trophy 2025 title.
As the match unfolded, fans witnessed a roller-coaster of emotions as both teams showcased world-class performances. In the end, India emerged victorious, clinching their third ICC Champions Trophy title, leaving fans in awe of their sheer brilliance and fighting spirit.
In this detailed article, we will relive the most memorable moments from the Champions Trophy 2025 Final, analyze key player performances, and understand how India managed to defeat New Zealand to claim the trophy.
Pre-Match Build-Up
The excitement surrounding the Champions Trophy 2025 Final was massive, as both India and New Zealand had displayed remarkable form throughout the tournament. India, led by the charismatic captain Rohit Sharma, was determined to bring home the trophy after their heartbreak in the 2023 World Cup Final against Australia.
On the other hand, New Zealand, captained by the experienced Kane Williamson, was equally motivated to secure their first-ever Champions Trophy title. Their consistent performance in ICC events had earned them the title of ‘silent assassins,’ and they were determined to outshine India in the grand finale.
Both teams had a balanced squad with world-class batsmen, lethal bowlers, and dynamic all-rounders, making the final a highly anticipated cricketing spectacle.
Toss and Team Line-Ups
The toss was a crucial factor, considering the pitch conditions at Lord’s Cricket Ground. Rohit Sharma won the toss and chose to bat first, setting the tone for an aggressive and competitive game.
India Playing XI:
- Rohit Sharma (C)
- Shubman Gill
- Virat Kohli
- KL Rahul (WK)
- Suryakumar Yadav
- Hardik Pandya
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Jasprit Bumrah
- Mohammed Siraj
- Arshdeep Singh
New Zealand Playing XI:
- Devon Conway
- Finn Allen
- Kane Williamson (C)
- Daryl Mitchell
- Glenn Phillips
- Tom Latham (WK)
- James Neesham
- Mitchell Santner
- Tim Southee
- Trent Boult
- Lockie Ferguson
First Innings: India Sets a Competitive Target
Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill’s Solid Start
The Indian openers, Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill, gave a fantastic start to the innings, showcasing aggressive yet calculated batting. Rohit, known for his big-match temperament, played some exquisite shots, while Gill provided solid support from the other end.
The pair managed to build a strong 85-run partnership before Trent Boult dismissed Shubman Gill (41) in the 13th over.
Virat Kohli’s Masterclass
As expected, Virat Kohli walked in to bat at No. 3 and immediately took charge of the innings. Kohli’s ability to anchor innings under pressure once again came to the forefront. Along with Rohit Sharma, he added 98 runs for the second wicket, frustrating the New Zealand bowlers.
Rohit Sharma was eventually dismissed for a brilliant 72 off 49 balls, but Virat Kohli continued his fine form, scoring 89 off 70 balls before falling victim to Lockie Ferguson.
Lower-Order Contribution
The middle and lower order, led by Hardik Pandya (45 off 28 balls) and Ravindra Jadeja (30 off 18 balls), provided a fiery finish to the innings. Their power-hitting propelled India’s total to 312/7 in 50 overs, setting a competitive target of 313 runs for New Zealand.
Key Highlights of India’s Batting:
- Rohit Sharma: 72 (49)
- Virat Kohli: 89 (70)
- Hardik Pandya: 45 (28)
- Total: 312/7 (50 overs)
Second Innings: New Zealand’s Chase Begins
Early Setbacks for New Zealand
Chasing a target of 313, New Zealand got off to a shaky start. Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj wreaked havoc early on, dismissing both openers — Devon Conway (7) and Finn Allen (13) — within the powerplay.
Kane Williamson and Daryl Mitchell tried to stabilize the innings, but a brilliant delivery from Kuldeep Yadav sent Williamson packing for 35.
Glenn Phillips’ Heroics
The turning point came when Glenn Phillips took charge of the chase. His aggressive and fearless batting kept New Zealand’s hopes alive. Phillips smashed 74 runs off 49 balls, hitting massive sixes off spinners and pacers alike.
However, Jasprit Bumrah struck again in the 43rd over, dismissing Phillips and tilting the game in India’s favor.
New Zealand Falls Short
With Tom Latham and the tailenders left, New Zealand struggled to keep up with the required run rate. Bumrah’s death-over brilliance and Siraj’s sharp pace restricted New Zealand to 298/9 in 50 overs, allowing India to win by 14 runs.
Key Performances
Player of the Match: Virat Kohli
Virat Kohli’s masterful innings of 89 runs under pressure was the cornerstone of India’s victory. His ability to build partnerships and handle pressure in high-stakes matches once again proved why he is regarded as one of the greatest cricketers of all time.
Best Bowling Performance: Jasprit Bumrah
Jasprit Bumrah once again showed why he is the best death-over specialist. His figures of 4/41 in 10 overs were instrumental in breaking crucial partnerships and ensuring New Zealand did not cross the finish line.
Captaincy Brilliance: Rohit Sharma
Rohit Sharma’s brilliant captaincy, particularly in field placements and bowling changes, played a significant role in clinching the title for India.
India’s Third ICC Champions Trophy Title
With this historic victory, India lifted their third ICC Champions Trophy, previously winning it in 2002 (shared with Sri Lanka) and 2013 (under MS Dhoni). The 2025 victory is particularly significant as it marks India’s first major ICC tournament win under Rohit Sharma’s captaincy.
Winning Moments
As the final wicket fell, Indian players erupted in joy, and the stadium was filled with cheers from thousands of Indian fans. Rohit Sharma lifted the Champions Trophy 2025, dedicating the victory to the fans and team management who supported them throughout the tournament.
Conclusion
The India vs New Zealand, Champions Trophy 2025 Final was a cricketing spectacle that will be remembered for years. Both teams displayed exceptional talent, but India’s resilience and brilliance under pressure ultimately helped them emerge as the Champions Trophy 2025 winners.
This victory solidifies India’s dominance in the world of cricket and sets the stage for future glory. Fans will cherish this triumph for generations, and it will undoubtedly go down as one of the greatest matches in Champions Trophy history.
Final Score:
- India: 312/7 (50 overs)
- New Zealand: 298/9 (50 overs)
- Winner: India by 14 runs
