Dubai: At the start of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, few believed that India, struggling with back-to-back Test series defeats, could emerge as champions. With stronger teams in contention, especially defending champions Pakistan playing as hosts, expectations were low. Concerns grew after India’s experimental ODI series against England, drawing comparisons to their 2007 ODI World Cup group-stage exit. However, the strategic moves of coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Rohit Sharma laid the foundation for an extraordinary turnaround.
Key Tactical Moves
One of the biggest gambles was reshuffling the batting order, with Akshar Patel promoted to No. 5 while KL Rahul dropped to No. 6. This move, initially questioned, proved to be a masterstroke. KL Rahul adapted brilliantly, scoring 140 runs in five matches, while Akshar Patel’s aggressive style turned crucial games in India’s favor.
Veterans Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, previously criticized for their Test performances, silenced critics with exceptional displays. Rohit’s match-winning innings in the final earned him Player of the Match, while Kohli’s century against Pakistan and a vital half-century against Australia played key roles in India’s title run.
From tactical experiments to unexpected heroes, India’s Champions Trophy triumph stands as a testament to bold leadership and adaptability.
