India Claims ICC Champions Trophy, Defeats New Zealand

India secured the ICC Champions Trophy title with a four-wicket win over New Zealand in Dubai, marking their third title in the tournament's history. Chasing a target of 252, India faced early setbacks but key contributions from players like Rohit Sharma, who scored 76, and a solid finish from KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja led them to victory with six balls to spare. New Zealand, batting first, set a competitive total of 251/7, anchored by Daryl Mitchell's 63 and Michael Bracewell's quickfire 53 not out. The Indian bowlers, particularly Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy, played a crucial role in restricting New Zealand's scoring. This victory follows India's success in both the T20 World Cup and the Champions Trophy, reinforcing their dominance in white-ball cricket. Despite the celebratory atmosphere, there was disappointment that the final was not held in Lahore due to India's travel refusal to Pakistan.