March 7, 2025: India has made it to the final of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy in Dubai, maintaining an impeccable record throughout the tournament with four wins. The team’s all-around performances have showcased their strengths, and they are now set to face off in the final with a chance to claim the prestigious title.
India’s campaign began with a thrilling six-wicket win over Bangladesh. The match saw outstanding bowling performances, including a brilliant 5/53 from Mohammed Shami, alongside key contributions from Harshit Rana and Axar Patel, who picked up three and two wickets, respectively, to restrict Bangladesh to 228. In reply, Shubman Gill played a stellar knock of 101* to guide India to victory, with support from Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul.
The next high-octane clash came against arch-rivals Pakistan. India’s bowlers, led by Kuldeep Yadav’s three-wicket haul, restricted Pakistan to 241 in 49.4 overs. Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer provided solid contributions with the bat, but it was Virat Kohli’s magnificent unbeaten 100 that sealed India’s six-wicket win and reaffirmed his match-winning abilities.
India’s final group match was against New Zealand, and both teams had already qualified for the semi-finals. New Zealand’s bowlers put in a good performance to restrict India to 249/9. However, Varun Chakravarthy delivered a sensational five-wicket haul, leading India to bowl New Zealand out for just 205, ensuring their place in the final four.
In the semi-final against Australia, India’s bowlers dominated, restricting Australia to 264 all out. Mohammed Shami led the charge with three wickets, supported by the spinners Axar Patel and Ravindra Jadeja. Chasing the target, Virat Kohli anchored the innings with 84 off 98 balls, while the finishers — Axar Patel, KL Rahul, and Hardik Pandya — guided India home with 11 balls to spare.
India will now look to continue their impressive form as they aim for the Champions Trophy title in the final.