Champions Trophy 2025: India’s road to the finals
India’s journey to the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy final has been marked by dominant performances and strategic excellence. Their campaign began on February 20 against Bangladesh at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Opting to bowl first, India showcased their bowling prowess by dismissing Bangladesh for 228 runs, with Mohammed Shami delivering an impressive spell, taking five wickets for 53 runs. In response, opener Shubman Gill anchored the chase with an unbeaten 101, guiding India to a six-wicket victory with 3.3 overs to spare.
Building on this momentum, India faced arch-rivals Pakistan on February 23. The bowlers once again set the tone, restricting Pakistan to 241 runs. Virat Kohli then led the batting charge, scoring an unbeaten 100, which propelled India to a six-wicket win in 42.3 overs. This victory not only underscored India’s dominance but also secured their spot in the semi-finals.
In their final group stage match on March 2, India squared off against New Zealand. Batting first, India posted a total of 249/9, with New Zealand’s Matt Henry posing challenges by claiming five wickets for 42 runs. However, India’s bowlers, led by Varun Chakravarthy’s remarkable five-wicket haul (5/42), dismissed New Zealand for 204, sealing a 44-run victory. This win ensured India topped Group A, setting up a semi-final clash against Australia.
The semi-final on March 4 saw India facing Australia in Dubai. Australia, batting first, managed 264 runs before being bowled out, with Shami contributing significantly by taking three wickets for 48 runs. India’s chase encountered early setbacks, but Kohli’s masterful 84 runs stabilized the innings. His strategic approach, which focused on rotating the strike and building partnerships, was pivotal in guiding India to a four-wicket victory with 11 balls remaining, securing their place in the final.
Throughout the tournament, India’s consistent performances have been bolstered by key players. Kohli’s batting brilliance has been complemented by the effective spin duo of Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy, who have collectively taken 21 wickets, often stifling opposition batting line-ups. This spin dominance is expected to play a crucial role in the final, especially on the spin-friendly pitches of Dubai.
As India prepares to face New Zealand in the final on March 9 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, they aim to clinch their third Champions Trophy title. Their journey to the final has showcased a blend of experienced leadership, strategic acumen, and individual brilliance, setting the stage for a thrilling conclusion to the tournament.
