By Dubai, UAE: The 2025 ICC Champions Trophy concluded on March 9, 2025, with India emerging victorious, defeating New Zealand by four wickets in the final held at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. This edition of the tournament was marked by geopolitical challenges, logistical issues, and debates over the integrity of the competition.
Tournament Overview
Hosted by Pakistan from February 19 to March 9, 2025, the Champions Trophy featured the top eight men’s national teams. Matches were scheduled across three venues in Pakistan and one in the United Arab Emirates. Notably, Afghanistan made its debut in this edition.
Geopolitical Challenges
The strained political relationship between India and Pakistan led to a ‘hybrid model’ for the tournament. India’s matches were relocated to Dubai, disrupting the original schedule and raising concerns about fairness. Critics argued that the International Cricket Council (ICC) appeared to prioritize financial considerations over the sport’s integrity.
Financial Implications
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) faced significant financial losses, reportedly amounting to an 85% deficit after investing INR 869 crore for hosting only one home game. This financial strain had adverse effects on players and the board’s operations.
On-Field Performances
Despite the off-field controversies, the tournament showcased remarkable cricketing talent:
- India: Led by captain Rohit Sharma, India maintained a dominant presence throughout the tournament. Virat Kohli’s consistent performances were instrumental in India’s success.
- New Zealand: The Black Caps reached the final but faced challenges, including injuries to key players like Matt Henry and Rachin Ravindra. Captain Mitchell Santner expressed pride in the team’s resilience despite the setbacks.
Final Match Highlights
In the final, India chased down New Zealand’s total, securing victory by four wickets. The match highlighted India’s batting depth and strategic acumen. While India’s cricketing prowess was evident, some observers felt the victory was overshadowed by the tournament’s controversies. Concerns about perceived favoritism and the ICC’s governance were topics of discussion among cricket enthusiasts and analysts.
