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by Ojasv Agarwal
India's journey in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy has been nothing short of breathtaking. The group stage match against New Zealand set the stage, but things didn’t go as planned. Key players like Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill, and Rohit Sharma were dismissed early, leaving India in a precarious position. With the top order falling one by one, all eyes shifted to the middle order to stabilize the innings—a challenge they met head-on.
This is where the unsung heroes emerged. Shreyas Iyer, Hardik Pandya, and KL Rahul stepped up when it mattered most. Their composure under pressure not only rescued the innings but also set the tone for the rest of the tournament. Every run counted, and these middle-order players showed incredible resilience. Gautam Gambhir, in fact, remarked that only a few players, like Hardik Pandya, can manage the pressures of the middle order with such poise. His words proved true as Iyer, Pandya, and Rahul brought stability to the innings, showing that sometimes the most unexpected players bring out the best.
Yet, India’s success wasn’t solely built on batting heroics. The bowling department played an equally pivotal role throughout the tournament. India’s spin attack—led by Varun Chakravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, and Ravindra Jadeja—transformed the middle overs into a near-impenetrable fortress. On pitches that favored spinners, they not only kept the opposition's scoring in check but also took crucial wickets at key junctures. Their performance was complemented by the pacers, who provided perfect backup, tightening the noose further whenever the pressure mounted. In the final against New Zealand, as the opposition tried to set a challenging target, the combined efforts of the spinners and pacers ensured that India maintained control throughout the match.
Fast forward to the final against New Zealand—a match that tested every aspect of India's character. The stakes were at their highest, and it was another high-pressure situation. In an unexpected twist, Virat Kohli, who had been consistent throughout the tournament, was dismissed early for just a single or two runs. That early setback could have derailed the team, but once again, the middle order rose to the occasion. Iyer, Pandya, and Rahul didn’t just play—they orchestrated a brilliant partnership, turning the game on its head. Their ability to stay calm and adapt under pressure reminded us that India’s strength lies not just in its superstars but also in the depth of its squad.
Off the field, the tournament wasn’t without its controversies. Critics argued that India had an “unfair advantage” by playing all their matches in Dubai, while other teams had to travel between various stadiums in Pakistan. The claim was that constant travel could tire the opposition, giving India a leg up with more familiar conditions. But, as Gambhir pointed out, the Indian team had no prior experience on the Dubai ground either. In fact, the unfamiliarity with the conditions meant that both India and their opponents were essentially on a level playing field. The challenge of adapting to the spin-friendly pitches of Dubai added an extra layer of difficulty, testing each team’s mental fortitude and leaving no room for complacency.
Another fascinating aspect of this tournament was the significance it had for the ODI format. The Champions Trophy made a grand return after its last edition in 2017, injecting fresh excitement into one-day international cricket. In an era where T20 leagues and Test matches often dominate the conversation, the return of this prestigious tournament reminded everyone of the unique thrill and tactical depth that ODIs offer. The nail-biting finishes and dramatic turns throughout the tournament have rekindled interest in the format, proving that one-day cricket still has plenty to offer both players and fans alike.
All in all, India’s triumph at the 2025 Champions Trophy wasn’t just a victory—it was a celebration of teamwork, resilience, and the unexpected brilliance of its middle order. With players like Shreyas Iyer, Hardik Pandya, and KL Rahul stepping up when the pressure was on, India showed that even in the face of early setbacks, their collective spirit could turn the tide of any match. This win is a testament to the blend of veteran leadership and youthful dynamism that continues to keep India at the top of world cricket. As the tournament concludes, one thing is abundantly clear: whether through stellar performances or overcoming unforeseen challenges, the heart of Indian cricket beats strongest when the pressure is on.