India vs New Zealand | Final | 15th Match | ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Pakistan




Cricket enthusiasts were treated to an unforgettable match as India faced New Zealand in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy final held in Pakistan. The renowned Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore was filled to capacity, with supporters from both countries creating an exhilarating ambiance. The stakes were incredibly high, tension was evident, and the cricketing deities provided a match for the history books. Here’s a summary of the exciting contest that resulted in a new champion.


The Journey to the Final

India and New Zealand had both showcased exceptional performances throughout the tournament. Led by the energetic Rohit Sharma, India smoothly progressed through the group stages and semifinals with impressive displays from their star batting lineup and disciplined bowling. Meanwhile, New Zealand, under the steady leadership of Kane Williamson, also performed effectively, demonstrating their resilience and adaptability in critical situations.


The stage was primed for an epic clash between two of the most reliable teams in the world of cricket. India, looking to secure another ICC title, and New Zealand, striving to shed their "perennial bridesmaids" reputation, were ready to give their all on the pitch.


The Toss and Team Tactics

New Zealand won the toss and chose to bat first, a decision that surprised some given the dew factor often experienced in Lahore during evening matches. Kane Williamson, however, trusted his team’s ability to set a challenging target and apply pressure on India's formidable batting lineup.


Conversely, India felt confident in their chase, with Rohit Sharma stressing the need for composure and the execution of their strategies under pressure.


New Zealand’s Innings: A Story of Resilience and Style

New Zealand's innings was a thrilling rollercoaster. Openers Devon Conway and Finn Allen started steadily, but India’s pace ace Jasprit Bumrah made an early breakthrough, dismissing Allen in the 6th over. Nevertheless, Conway remained steadfast and formed a solid partnership with Kane Williamson, who looked brilliant.


Williamson's graceful shot selection and Conway's calculated aggression propelled New Zealand to a strong position at 150/2 by the 30th over. However, India’s spinners, Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav, shifted the momentum with some outstanding bowling during the middle overs. Jadeja’s dismissal of Williamson for a commendable 78 was a pivotal moment, and New Zealand struggled to sustain their pace in the closing overs.


A late surge from Glenn Phillips (45 off 28 balls) along with a quick contribution from Mitchell Santner enabled New Zealand to set a respectable total of 275/8 in their allotted 50 overs. It was a challenging target, but considering India’s batting prowess, the contest was anything but over.


India’s Chase: A Display of Poise

India’s chase began explosively as Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill aggressively attacked the New Zealand bowlers. The pair amassed a 90-run partnership in a mere 12 overs, with Gill particularly looking invincible. However, New Zealand retaliated with quick wickets, sending both openers back to the pavilion shortly thereafter.


Virat Kohli and KL Rahul then took charge, stabilizing the innings with a vital 120-run partnership. Kohli functioned as the anchor while Rahul adopted a more aggressive stance, taking well-calculated risks to keep the score moving. The match appeared to be slipping from New Zealand's grasp until Trent Boult delivered a moment of brilliance, dismissing Kohli for a determined 65.With 50 runs required in the last 10 overs and 5 wickets remaining, the game was hanging in the balance. Hardik Pandya and Rishabh Pant stepped up, playing with caution while also punishing any loose deliveries. Pandya’s six off Lockie Ferguson during the 48th over electrified the crowd, and Pant’s boundary just before the final over clinched the victory.


India successfully chased down the target with 3 balls to spare, igniting wild celebrations both in the stadium and throughout the cricketing community.


Key Contributions  

Kane Williamson (NZ): 78 runs off 85 balls – A commanding innings from the captain under pressure.


Ravindra Jadeja (IND): 2 wickets for 42 runs in 10 overs – His bowling spell was pivotal in turning the match in favor of India.


Virat Kohli (IND): 65 runs off 75 balls – He was the foundation of India’s chase.


Trent Boult (NZ): 3 wickets for 55 runs in 10 overs – He kept New Zealand competitive with key dismissals.


The Aftermath  

India’s triumph signified their third ICC Champions Trophy title, reinforcing their position as one of the leading teams in international cricket. For New Zealand, it was yet another heartbreaking defeat in a final, but their resilience and sportsmanship gained them a multitude of admirers.


The tournament was a resounding triumph for Pakistan, which hosted the event with great pride and hospitality. Fans, players, and the larger cricketing community experienced a celebration of cricket that will be remembered for years.


Final Thoughts  

The India vs New Zealand finale was a perfect conclusion to an exhilarating tournament. It featured everything – outstanding individual performances, tense moments, and a heart-stopping finish. Cricket emerged as the true victor, and fans are eager for the next chapter in this historic rivalry.


What were your thoughts on the final? Who did you consider the player of the match? Share with us in the comments below!