India beat New Zealand by four wickets to win Champions Trophy final

India finish Champions Trophy campaign with a four-wicket victory

India defeated New Zealand by four wickets in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final to lift the title after an impressive campaign. Rohit Sharma led the chase with a composed 76 from 83 balls, earning the Player of the Match award and providing the platform for India’s successful pursuit.

Rohit’s aggressive approach during the opening Powerplay set the tone on a challenging pitch. He later explained that his familiarity with the venue helped him understand how to use his feet and target the early overs, even though the approach can sometimes bring risk. India’s batting depth gave the team the confidence to attack the new ball.

Rahul and Jadeja complete the chase

After Rohit’s departure, India’s middle order absorbed the pressure before KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja guided the team through the final stages. Hardik Pandya also contributed during the closing overs, with the Indian players praising Rahul’s calm temperament and ability to take chances at the right moments.

Rohit described Rahul as a player with a “solid and calm mind,” adding that his composure allows other batters, including Hardik, to play more freely. Ravindra Jadeja also praised Rahul and Hardik for handling the final 10 overs on a pitch that became increasingly difficult to bat on.

India’s spin plan delivers again

India’s spinners played a major role throughout the tournament and again proved decisive in the final. Rohit Sharma highlighted the consistency of the spin attack, while Kuldeep Yadav credited the team’s planning and said Rohit’s management of four spinners was far from easy.

Varun Chakaravarthy, a late inclusion in the side, said the opportunity had exceeded his expectations and described the experience as a dream come true. He emphasised the importance of sticking to the team’s plans.

New Zealand fall short but earn praise

New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner acknowledged that India were the better side on the day. He felt New Zealand were approximately 20 to 25 runs short, but praised his team’s fighting spirit and the contributions made by different players during the tournament.

Santner singled out Rohit’s outstanding first Powerplay, while Virat Kohli praised New Zealand’s organisation, belief and fielding. Kohli also expressed sadness that his friend Kane Williamson was on the losing side, stressing that the relationship between the two teams remains one of mutual respect.

Ravindra named Player of the Tournament

New Zealand’s Rachin Ravindra was named Player of the Tournament after scoring 263 runs, including two centuries. Ravindra said winning the trophy would have been the perfect conclusion but acknowledged that cricket can be cruel. He also praised the squad’s team-first approach, saying every player had a role regardless of experience.

India’s players celebrated a collective triumph, with Shubman Gill highlighting the importance of his partnership with Rohit and the team’s eight consecutive ODI victories. Shreyas Iyer, playing in his first ICC Trophy, described the win as overwhelming, while Hardik Pandya reflected on India’s 2017 disappointment and said it was special to complete the job this time.

Rohit Sharma eventually lifted the Champions Trophy during the presentation ceremony, as India’s players collected their medals and white victory jackets. The triumph marked a memorable end to the tournament’s return after an eight-year absence.