India’s Unmatched Quality and Depth Secure Back-to-Back ICC Triumphs.
India’s Unyielding Depth Secures Consecutive ICC Triumphs
In a thrilling finale at the Dubai International Stadium, India showcased their exceptional quality and depth, securing their second consecutive ICC tournament victory by defeating New Zealand by four wickets. This win adds the ICC Champions Trophy to their accolades, meaning they now hold two of the four major ICC trophies, having been runners-up in the other two. Notably, in the last three ICC tournaments, India has emerged victorious in 22 of their 23 completed matches.
New Zealand’s Resilient Start and India’s Spin Dominance
Winning a crucial toss, New Zealand capitalized early, racing to 69 for 1 in the powerplay. However, India’s high-caliber spin attack, featuring Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy, applied pressure on a pitch offering minimal turn. The spinners collectively bowled 38 overs, conceding just 144 runs and claiming five wickets, effectively stifling New Zealand’s momentum.
India’s Steady Chase Amidst New Zealand’s Persistent Fight
India commenced their chase assertively, reaching 64 for 0 in the powerplay, bolstered by a 105-run opening partnership between Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill. Despite New Zealand’s spinners exploiting increased turn in the second innings—averaging 3.4 degrees compared to 2 degrees in the first—India’s batsmen navigated the challenges. New Zealand’s spinners delivered 35 overs, yielding 152 runs and securing five wickets, but India’s depth ensured they achieved the target with an over to spare.
India’s Batting Depth Seals the Victory in Style
Every Indian batter, except for Virat Kohli, contributed to the chase, with scores ranging from Rohit Sharma’s composed 76 to Hardik Pandya’s quickfire 18 off 18 balls. Despite no individual batter staying until the end, India’s remarkable batting depth proved decisive. KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja held their nerve, steering India to victory with four wickets in hand and an over to spare, ensuring another glorious ICC triumph.
1 Comment
Lalithkumar
Congratulations team India, well played kiwis , Being an Indian I feel India had an advantage of not traveling throughout the series . Good final match not the great one