New Delhi: Having chased its target of 252 runs 49 overs in, India triumphed over New Zealand on Sunday (March 9) evening by four wickets in Dubai to win this year’s Champions’ Trophy and its third overall in the tournament’s history.
India, which won the tournament having registered no losses, is the first country to win three Champions’ Trophies. Its last victories were in 2002 and 2013.
Ravindra Jadeja’s four off the last ball of the 49th over took India from 250 to 254 runs to end Sunday’s riveting finale.
Captain Rohit Sharma was India’s highest scorer at 76 runs, followed by Shreyas Iyer (48) and K.L. Rahul (34).
Among the Kiwis, who opted to bat first having won the toss, two players scored half-centuries: Daryl Mitchell (63) and Michael Bracewell (53).
The partnership between New Zealand openers Will Young and Rachin Ravindra saw 57 runs off seven overs and four balls.
Following Young’s dismissal by Chakaravarthy the Kiwis struggled to collect runs and lost wickets at regular intervals, with Indian spinners ruling the roost.
Sharma and opening partner Gill gave India a dream start, forging an over 100-run partnership.
The match turned into a rollercoaster ride after Virat Kohli’s dismissal for one run. The men in blue almost seemed to lose a wicket whenever they became poised; singles became more frequent and boundaries less so.
Ultimately Rahul and Jadeja’s partnership led India to victory, with the former holding his nerve till the end and through crucial moments.
Sharma was declared player of the match, while New Zealand’s Ravindra was crowned player of the tournament.
Although Pakistan hosted this year’s tournament, India played all its matches in Dubai due to the Union government’s objections to the team playing in Pakistan.
