India has solidified its reputation as a cricketing powerhouse by winning the ICC Champions Trophy. Ably led by Rohit Sharma, the Men in Blue showcased their dominance by New Zealand and making history with their record-breaking third title, their first since the victory notched in 2013. This only adds to their dominance in recent times, with the team now holding two of four ICC trophies, having lost in the final of the other two.
India’s Victory in the 2013 ICC Champions Trophy
India lifted the ICC Champions Trophy for the second time in history in 2013 under the captaincy of MS Dhoni. Facing England in the final at Edgbaston, the rain-affected match was reduced to 20 overs per side. Batting first, India set a target of 129, with Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja making crucial contributions.
India’s bowlers put up a stellar performance, with Jadeja shining both with the bat and ball, ensuring a dramatic five-run victory. MS Dhoni’s leadership was lauded as India defended a modest total in challenging conditions. The win added to India’s previous Champions Trophy triumph in 2002, which they shared with Sri Lanka.
The 2013 Champions Trophy win was particularly significant as it marked India’s dominance in limited-overs cricket under Dhoni’s captaincy. It was a tournament where the young Indian team, featuring the likes of Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma, displayed immense maturity and talent. Dhawan, in particular, finished as the tournament’s highest run-scorer, playing a crucial role in India’s success.
India’s Historic 2025 ICC Champions Trophy Win
Twelve years after their previous triumph, India once again conquered the ICC Champions Trophy in 2025, securing their third title. The final, played at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, saw India edge past New Zealand by four wickets in a tense finish.
Spinners Set the Stage for India’s Victory
New Zealand, after winning the toss and opting to bat first, posted a competitive total of 251/7 in 50 overs. The Indian bowling attack, led by spinners Kuldeep Yadav (2/40) and Varun Chakravarthy (2/45), played a crucial role in restricting the Blackcaps. All-rounder Ravindra Jadeja and pace veteran Mohammed Shami contributed with a wicket each.
Daryl Mitchell was the standout performer for New Zealand with a solid 63, while Michael Bracewell added 53 to keep the scoreboard ticking. However, India’s disciplined bowling effort ensured that the target remained within reach.
India’s fielding was also a major highlight of the final, with Jadeja and Suryakumar Yadav producing breathtaking catches that shifted the momentum in India’s favor. The energy on the field reflected the team’s hunger to lift the trophy yet again.
Rohit Sharma’s Commanding Knock Guides India’s Chase
India’s chase started in dominant fashion, with skipper Rohit Sharma leading from the front. His brilliant 76 provided the perfect foundation alongside his opening partner Shubman Gill, who contributed to a 105-run opening stand.
Despite a few quick wickets, Shreyas Iyer’s composed 48 kept India in the hunt. In the final overs, KL Rahul’s unbeaten 34 guided India to victory with an over to spare, ensuring a thrilling win over the Black Caps.
Apart from the top-order contributions, Hardik Pandya played a crucial role in finishing the match with his all-round skills, smashing a few boundaries at a critical juncture to relieve pressure. The partnership between Rahul and Pandya ensured that India stayed on course for victory.
Rohit Sharma Ends Retirement Speculations
Rohit Sharma’s stellar performance in the final put an end to rumours about his retirement. His aggressive yet composed innings and tactical leadership were instrumental in India’s success, marking yet another glorious chapter in his illustrious career. With this victory, he became one of the most successful captains in Indian cricket history, joining the likes of MS Dhoni and Kapil Dev.
After the match, Sharma addressed the media, stating, “This win is special. We have worked hard as a team, and every player has played their part. Winning the Champions Trophy after 12 years makes it even sweeter.”
India’s Recent ICC Champions Trophy Triumphs
- 2025: India (Runner-up: New Zealand) | Venue: Pakistan | Player of the Final: Rohit Sharma | Player of the Tournament: Mitchell Santner
- 2013: India (Runner-up: England) | Venue: England and Wales | Player of the Final: MS Dhoni | Player of the Tournament: Alastair Cook
India’s Champions Trophy triumphs in 2013 and 2025 further solidified their reputation as one of cricket’s most formidable teams. With victories spanning over a decade under different captains, India’s consistency and resilience on the global stage continue to inspire generations of cricket fans.
Both wins were a testament to India’s strength across formats, their ability to adapt to different conditions, and their deep talent pool. The Champions Trophy victories will be remembered as milestones in India’s cricketing history, showcasing the team’s evolution from Dhoni’s leadership era to the new generation led by Rohit Sharma.
