India Triumphs Over New Zealand to Secure ICC Glory

India continued their dominant run in ICC tournaments, defeating New Zealand in a hard-fought final to extend their unbeaten streak. With this victory, India now holds two of the four ICC trophies, having lost in the final of the other two. In their last three ICC tournaments, India has won 22 of their 23 completed matches, showcasing remarkable consistency and depth.

Winning the toss proved crucial as New Zealand, despite a flying start of 69 for 1 in the powerplay, struggled against India's high-quality spin attack. On a pitch offering minimal turn, India's spinners bowled 38 overs, conceding just 144 runs while taking five wickets. Michael Bracewell’s late surge with a 53-run knock helped New Zealand set a competitive total, giving their bowlers something to defend.

India’s chase mirrored New Zealand’s innings in many ways. Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill provided a strong start with a 105-run opening stand. However, New Zealand’s spinners capitalized on the increasing turn in the second innings, restricting runs and taking key wickets. Glenn Phillips’ sensational catch removed Gill, while Michael Bracewell trapped Virat Kohli lbw first ball. Rohit, after a promising knock, was stumped while trying to accelerate.

With the match hanging in the balance at 122 for 3, Shreyas Iyer and Axar Patel steadied the innings with a 61-run stand. Iyer was lucky to survive twice—first when Will Young caught him at the boundary but stepped on the skirting, and then when Kyle Jamieson dropped a chance. However, he eventually fell in the 39th over, leaving India needing 67 from 68 balls.

Despite the mounting pressure, India’s depth came to the rescue. KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja ensured there were no late collapses, playing calculated cricket to chase down the target with an over to spare and four wickets in hand. Hardik Pandya’s dismissal in the 48th over momentarily raised New Zealand’s hopes, but Jadeja’s composure sealed the victory.

New Zealand, led by Rachin Ravindra’s elegant batting and a spirited bowling effort, fought valiantly but fell short against India’s superior quality and adaptability. The final was a fitting end to a tournament that had lacked close contests, with both teams giving their all. India, with its remarkable depth and balanced squad, proved why they remain one of the most formidable teams in world cricket.