ROHIT ROARS: ‘I’m Not Going To Retire’ Skipper’s knock and india’s spin kings clinch champions trophy glory

In a dazzling display of leadership and skill, Rohit Sharma played a crucial knock of 76 to help India secure a record-breaking third Champions Trophy title with a four-wicket win over New Zealand in Dubai on Sunday.

This victory marks India’s third Champions Trophy triumph – joining their wins in 2002 and 2013 – making them the only team to lift the trophy three times, leaving Australia behind with just two wins.

Chasing a target of 252, India started the chase with a bang. Rohit, scoring his first half-century of the tournament, set the tone for the match. KL Rahul then showcased calm and composure, finishing unbeaten on 34 as India reached the target with six balls remaining. The win solidified India’s status as the top-ranked ODI side, remaining undefeated throughout the eight-team competition.

After the game, during the press conference, Rohit was quick to address questions about his future in the format. With his characteristic candor, he said, “Koi future plan hai nahi, jo chal raha hai chalega” – meaning that he has no set plans for the future, and what’s working will continue. “I am not going to retire from this format,” he affirmed.

Reflecting on his career, Rohit recalled his 2019 World Cup performance where heavy scoring wasn’t enough to secure a win, adding, “When the team wins and you contribute, it brings true satisfaction. I know exactly how I want to bat, and I’m sticking to that.” His stellar performance in the final earned him the Player of the Match award.

This win is Rohit’s second major ICC trophy as captain. It follows India’s thrilling ICC T20 World Cup 2024 triumph in Barbados, where they edged past South Africa in a nail-biting final. With this latest success, India has once again cemented its place in cricket history by winning the prestigious Champions Trophy without a single loss.