Champions Trophy: `Any victory against Pakistan is sweet ...

India`s 44-run victory over New Zealand in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 group stage showcased strong performances from Shreyas Iyer and Varun Chakravarthy. Advancing to the semi-finals, India defeated Australia, with Virat Kohli`s crucial innings leading the way. The final against New Zealand is highly anticipated, with discussions around potential retirements of Kohli and Rohit Sharma.

India secured a convincing 44-run victory over New Zealand in their final group stage match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in Dubai on March 2, maintaining their unbeaten record in the tournament. Batting first, India posted a competitive total of 249/9 in 50 overs, with Shreyas Iyer leading the charge with a solid 79 runs, supported by Hardik Pandya`s 45.

In response, New Zealand struggled against India`s bowling attack and were bowled out for 205 in 45.3 overs. Varun Chakravarthy was the standout performer, claiming a remarkable five-wicket haul with figures of 5/42. This victory ensured India topped Group A with 6 points from 3 matches.

Following their group stage success, India faced Australia in the semi-final on March 4 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. In a thrilling encounter, India emerged victorious by 3 wickets, successfully chasing down Australia`s total of 264 all out in 49.3 overs. Virat Kohli played a crucial innings, scoring 84 off 98 balls, while Mohammed Shami and Axar Patel contributed significantly with the ball.

With this win, India advanced to the final of the Champions Trophy 2025, where they will face New Zealand again on March 9 in Dubai. The final is generating significant buzz, with speculation surrounding potential retirements of Indian cricket legends Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma from ODI cricket after the tournament. India`s impressive run in the Champions Trophy has sparked debates about their dominance in world cricket, particularly with some critics questioning the fairness of India playing all their matches in Dubai instead of Pakistan, the original host nation. However, former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar dismissed these criticisms, emphasizing India’s substantial contribution to global cricket, especially in financial terms.

As the tournament reaches its climax, India remains the favorite to clinch their third Champions Trophy title, but New Zealand, known for their resilience in ICC events, is expected to provide stiff competition in the final. For more details, visit ICC Champions Trophy and ESPN Cricinfo.



#ChampionsTrophy,#IndiaCricket,#ViratKohli,#NewZealand,#CricketFinal