Rohit Blazing Fifty Puts India in Command, But NZ Fights Back – Champions Trophy 2025 Final
India has started strong in their chase of 252 runs against New Zealand. This is the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final. It takes place at the Dubai International Stadium. Rohit Sharma scored 69 runs off 62 balls, while Shubman Gill added 29 runs off 46 balls. Together, they set a record with a 100-run opening partnership. This was the first-ever such partnership in a Champions Trophy final.
India was 103/0 after 18 overs. New Zealand needed a breakthrough. Glenn Phillips stepped up and made a sensational catch to dismiss Gill.
Rohit Sharma’s Explosive Fifty Sets the Tone
India’s skipper came out aggressively, dispatching boundaries at will:
- Nathan Smith’s second over went for 14 runs, as Rohit cut a short and wide ball over backward point for four.
- A clever lap shot over short fine leg further frustrated New Zealand’s bowlers.
- Rohit reached his half-century in just 41 balls, the fastest for India in this tournament.
Key Milestones for Rohit Sharma:
- 58th ODI half-century
- First 50+ score in the 2025 Champions Trophy
- Fastest fifty for India in the tournament
New Zealand’s seamers had a hard time with India’s openers. So, Mitchell Santner brought in spin early to try and slow the scoring.
India’s Record-Breaking Opening Stand
At the 17-over mark, India crossed 100 runs without losing a wicket, marking:
- The first 100+ opening stand in Champions Trophy final history
- 7th-century stand between Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill in ODIs
Gill played the perfect anchor, allowing Rohit to take the lead. With 149 runs needed off 192 balls, India was cruising toward another ICC title.
New Zealand Strikes Back with Stunning Glenn Phillips Catch
Just as India seemed unstoppable, New Zealand found a moment of brilliance.
- Mitchell Santner delivered a well-tossed-up delivery, tempting Gill into a drive.
- Glenn Phillips, stationed at short cover, pulled off a jaw-dropping one-handed catch.
- Gill stood in disbelief as Dubai fell silent.
With the opening stand broken, Virat Kohli walks in at No. 3, possibly for the last time in a Champions Trophy final.
Can New Zealand capitalize on this breakthrough, or will India continue their march to victory? Stay tuned for live updates from the Champions Trophy final!