Dubai, UAE: Dubai witnessed an electrifying start as India launched their pursuit of 252 in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final, racing to 51-0 in just 7.3 overs. The packed stadium, predominantly Indian supporters, erupted as Rohit Sharma brought up his half-century with a towering six off Nathan Smith.

The Indian skipper has looked in sublime form, effortlessly dispatching deliveries to all corners. He powered his way to 33 off 29 balls, unfazed even after a brief pause to call for the physio due to some discomfort. At the other end, Shubman Gill had an early slice of luck when Daryl Mitchell put down a tough one-handed catch, a reprieve that could prove costly for New Zealand.

From the very first over, Sharma signaled his intent, smashing a colossal six off Kyle Jamieson’s short delivery. He continued his aggressive approach, hammering another maximum over long-on and peppering the boundary with classic strokes.

The Black Caps’ bowlers, despite tight spells from Jamieson, have struggled to contain the onslaught. Matt Henry’s absence due to injury has weakened their attack, and India have capitalized brilliantly. With the scoreboard already at 45-0 after just seven overs, the Men in Blue are well on track in their quest to reclaim the ICC Champions Trophy after 12 years.

As the chase progresses, New Zealand desperately need a breakthrough to halt India’s momentum, or else the trophy may soon be heading to the subcontinent once again.