Team India secured their third ICC Champions Trophy title with a thrilling four-wicket victory over New Zealand in Dubai on Sunday, sparking celebrations across the nation.
In Gujarat, Indian all-rounder Axar Patel’s family marked the historic win by distributing sweets and bursting crackers. His father, Rajesh Patel, expressed immense pride in the team’s performance.
“The team played very well. We are very proud and happy with this victory of the team,” he told media.
Axar’s mother, Preeti Patel, also shared her happiness, saying, “I am very happy that the team has won the trophy. My blessings are with them.”
Match Summary
India’s victory was powered by a brilliant half-century from skipper Rohit Sharma, valuable contributions from Shreyas Iyer, and exceptional bowling performances by Varun Chakravarthy and Kuldeep Yadav. Their collective efforts ensured a successful chase of New Zealand’s target, leading India to lift the coveted trophy once again.
Batting first, New Zealand started strong with a 57-run partnership between Will Young (15) and Rachin Ravindra (37 off 29 balls, four boundaries, and a six). However, Kuldeep Yadav (2/40) applied pressure, reducing New Zealand to 75/3.
A crucial 57-run stand between Daryl Mitchell (63 off 101 balls, three fours) and Michael Bracewell helped the Kiwis cross the 150-run mark. Bracewell’s unbeaten 53 off 40 balls (three fours and two sixes) guided New Zealand to a total of 251/7 in 50 overs.
Kuldeep Yadav (2/40) and Varun Chakravarthy (2/45) were India’s top wicket-takers, while Mohammed Shami took a wicket but conceded 74 runs in nine overs.
During the run chase, India had a solid start with a 105-run opening partnership between Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill (31 off 50 balls, one six). However, quick wickets, including that of Rohit (76 off 83 balls, seven fours and three sixes), left India at 122/3.
Shreyas Iyer (48 off 62 balls, two fours and two sixes) and Axar Patel (29 off 40 balls, one four and one six) built a crucial 61-run stand before KL Rahul (34* off 33 balls, one four and one six) and Hardik Pandya (18) sealed the win for India with six wickets and an over to spare.
Michael Bracewell (2/28) and Mitchell Santner (2/46) were the leading wicket-takers for New Zealand.