India clinched the 2025 Champions Trophy with a thrilling four-wicket victory over New Zealand in Dubai. The final witnessed intense moments, but it was Shreyas Iyer who became the center of attention. His match-winning 48 (62 balls) provided stability in a shaky chase, but it was his iconic celebration that stole the limelight.
Shreyas Iyer’s Dance Upgrade on Virat Kohli’s Celebration
After India secured victory, Shreyas Iyer paid tribute to Virat Kohli’s famous 2013 Gangnam Style dance. He started with the classic horse-riding step, then added a desi twist with energetic Bhangra footwork. The unique celebration left his teammates in laughter and went viral on social media.
- India’s strong start: Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill built a 105-run opening partnership.
- Middle-order pressure: New Zealand’s spinners caused a mini-collapse, but Iyer played a crucial knock.
- Bowling brilliance: Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy dominated the middle overs.
- Final moments: Lokesh Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja ensured a calm finish, winning the match with six balls to spare.
New Zealand’s Fighting Total
New Zealand posted 251/7, anchored by Daryl Mitchell’s 63 and Michael Bracewell’s explosive late surge. Despite struggling against India’s spinners, Bracewell’s quick 132-strike-rate innings helped New Zealand push past 250. However, India’s chase remained steady, despite a few tense moments.
Iyer’s Crucial Knock Under Pressure
Walking in at 106/2 after Virat Kohli’s dismissal, Iyer steadied the innings alongside Rohit Sharma and Axar Patel. His two sixes and fearless approach against spin underlined his match-winning temperament. He later expressed, “I thrive under pressure… contributing to victory is everything.”
India’s Spin Magic
India’s bowlers made scoring difficult on the tacky Dubai pitch. Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy controlled the middle overs, restricting scoring opportunities. Their tight spells ensured that even with Bracewell’s late attack, New Zealand couldn’t dominate the scoreboard.
Final Moments: Rahul and Jadeja Hold Nerves
At 203/5, the game was balanced. Lokesh Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja’s composed finish sealed the win with ease. Their ability to rotate strike and punish loose balls helped India cross the line with six balls to spare.
Shreyas Iyer’s Celebration: A Viral Moment
While the victory was thrilling, Iyer’s unique celebration made headlines. His fusion of dance styles—a nod to Virat Kohli’s 2013 celebration—added a fun twist to India’s triumph. Fans flooded social media with clips of the dance, praising Iyer’s creativity.
India’s Champions Trophy win was a result of strong partnerships, spin brilliance, and nerves of steel. However, it was Shreyas Iyer’s dance upgrade that made the biggest splash. As India celebrated another ICC title, one thing was clear—this victory will be remembered not just for cricket but also for the dance that stole the show.
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