India claimed the ICC Champions Trophy title in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE), on Sunday to secure their third victory but this latest success might be viewed with skepticism.
Reigning Twenty20 World Champions India secured their second consecutive global title by winning a tense final against New Zealand under Rohit Sharma’s leadership.
India’s four-wicket win served as the ideal conclusion to their flawless campaign throughout the 50-overs tournament against the world’s eight best teams.
Over the recent 23 completed ICC tournament games India played they achieved victory in 22 matches. India lost their only match in the last three ICC events during the 50-overs World Cup final against Australia in 2023.
The victory brings partial relief from their earlier defeat yet presents questions regarding the perceived “unfair advantage” Rohit Sharma’s team gained from playing all their games in Dubai.
While other teams traveled between three Pakistani venues and then flew to the UAE for their matches against India the ultimate victors remained in Dubai where they benefitted from spin-friendly conditions.
The Indian team deployed their four spinners throughout the knockout phase and used them in 38 out of 50 overs against New Zealand.
Rohit expressed his appreciation for the spinners’ performance and thanked the large gathering of Indian supporters at the packed Dubai International Cricket Stadium during their victory celebration.
“The crowd has been magnificent. Although this isn’t our home ground the fans have transformed it into our playing field, Rohit explained after earning player-of-the-match honors for his quick 76.
India’s long-standing cricket nemesis New Zealand has been defeated twice in this tournament which marks a satisfying achievement for the eventual champions.
The New Zealand team delivered a courageous bowling performance while defending their score of 251-7 and skipper Mitchell Santner found motivation in their brave showing during his debut ICC event as a captain.
During their preparation phase New Zealand won a tri-series in Pakistan but only faced defeat against India during their lively Champions Trophy participation.