India’s spinners took control in the Champions Trophy 2025 final, restricting New Zealand to 251/7 at the Dubai International Stadium on Sunday.
New Zealand got off to a steady start, reaching 50 runs without losing a wicket. However, India struck back in the eighth over when Varun Chakravarthy dismissed opener Will Young for 15. Rachin Ravindra followed soon after, falling for 37 as the Kiwi batting order stumbled.
Kuldeep Yadav (2/40) and Varun Chakravarthy (2/45) led India’s bowling attack, while Ravindra Jadeja and Mohammed Shami chipped in with one wicket each. Despite the early setbacks, New Zealand recovered through crucial innings from Daryl Mitchell (63) and Michael Bracewell (53), helping their side post a competitive total.
With a win, India could secure a record third Champions Trophy title, having previously triumphed in 2002 and 2013. Australia remains their closest competitor, with two titles won in 2006 and 2009.
India: Rohit Sharma(c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Axar Patel, KL Rahul(w), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Shami, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakaravarthy
New Zealand: Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham(w), Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner(c), Kyle Jamieson, William O’Rourke, Nathan Smith
