After more than two decades of waiting, New Zealand finally broke their drought by defeating India to lift their first-ever ICC trophy. It was a landmark achievement for the Kiwis, but a bitter pill for India, who have now lost six straight ICC finals since 2014. For Virat Kohli, the quest for his first ICC title as captain continues.
India's defeat can be traced back to a lackluster batting performance. Despite the conditions improving, the batters simply didn't step up. The first innings began well, but frequent wickets prevented them from building a substantial total. The veteran core—Kohli, Pujara, and Rahane—didn't provide the stability needed in critical moments, exposing a vulnerability to the moving ball typical of English weather. Furthermore, there was a glaring lack of support from the lower order.
From a strategic standpoint, India's team selection was questionable. Given how much the pitch favored fast bowlers, playing two spinners left the attack unbalanced. This gap in the pace department proved costly, as New Zealand's lower order managed to add 87 runs and seize a 32-run lead. Even Jasprit Bumrah, known for his pinpoint yorkers, ended up without a wicket.
The toss played a pivotal role in the outcome. Unfortunately for India, they lost the flip, and since batting was a nightmare on the first day, New Zealand's decision to bowl first paid off handsomely. Had the coin landed differently, the entire trajectory of the match might have shifted.