Sunil Gavaskar dances after India's win [Source: @1spacerecorder/X.com]
In a thrilling finale at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, India clinched the 2025 Champions Trophy, edging past New Zealand by four wickets in a thrilling chase. The victory sparked euphoric celebrations across the nation.
However, it was the sight of 75-year-old Sunil Gavaskar, who himself was part of the 1983 celebrations, dancing with unbridled joy that etched itself into cricketing folklore.
Gavaskar Jumps With Pure Euphoria!
As Ravindra Jadeja smashed the winning runs, the commentary box erupted. When India was given the awards and the trophy in the midst of an interview, Gavaskar, the legendary opener turned analyst, leapt to his feet and broke into an impromptu jig.
His arms swung wildly, feet tapping to an invisible beat, and his infectious smile mirrored the delirium of millions. The man who once carved up bowling attacks with surgical precision was now slicing through the air with disco-worthy flair.
New Zealand’s Gritty Total
Opting to bat first, New Zealand posted 251/7, anchored by Daryl Mitchell’s patient 63 (101 balls) and Michael Bracewell’s blistering 53 (40). The Kiwis struggled against India’s spin trio as Kuldeep Yadav (2/40) and Varun Chakravarthy (2/45) stifled the middle overs.
However, Bracewell’s late fireworks lent respectability. A collapse from 165/5 to 211/7 hinted at India’s control, but Bracewell’s cameo ensured a competitive total.
India’s Nervy Chase
India’s reply wobbled early as Virat Kohli fell for 1, but Rohit Sharma (76 off 83) and Shubman Gill (31) laid a 105-run foundation though the latter was the first wicket for the Kiwi camp.
Shreyas Iyer (48) and Axar Patel (29) steadied the ship after a mid-innings slump before Rahul and Jadeja sealed the win with six balls left. Mitchell Santner and Bracewell fought hard, but India’s depth prevailed in a tense finish to lift the trophy for the third time.