Rohit Sharma set a great example by scoring a key 76 runs. His effort, along with strong spin bowling, helped India win their record third Champions Trophy title with a four-wicket victory over New Zealand on Sunday.
This win adds to India’s earlier wins in 2002 and 2013, making India the only team to win the title three times. Australia has won it twice.
India began the chase for 252 runs very well. Their captain, Rohit Sharma, scored his first half-century of the tournament and gave the team a good start. Then KL Rahul played steadily with an unbeaten 34, guiding India to victory with six balls remaining in the final in Dubai.
As the top-ranked ODI team in the world, India did not lose any match in the eight-nation tournament.
When Rohit entered the press conference room, everyone expected the question about his future plans. As expected, he replied in his simple style. He said, “Koi future plan hai nahi, jo chal raha hai chalega” (I have no future plan; I will keep doing what is working). He also added, “I am not going to retire from this format.”
Talking about his batting approach, Rohit said, “I scored a lot in the 2019 World Cup but it did not feel good because the team did not win. When the team wins and I make a contribution, it feels satisfying. I am clear in my mind about how I want to bat, and that is what I am trying to do.”
Rohit was named the Player of the Match for his brilliant 76 off 83 balls.
This is Rohit’s second ICC trophy as captain, after India’s win at the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 where they beat South Africa in a close final in Barbados.
With this win, India has become the most successful team in Champions Trophy history, winning the tournament without a loss.
