The streets of Tripura came alive with jubilant celebrations as cricket fans joined the rest of the country in rejoicing over Team India’s exciting victory against New Zealand in the Champions Trophy final on Sunday.
“India is not just a champion, we are unbeaten Champion”, a jubilant youth in Agartala shouted raising his both hands.
The celebrations extended beyond Agartala. In fact, from urban centers to small towns, the excitement was palpable as people gathered in front of TV showrooms, roadside eateries, and specially arranged live screening spots to witness the high-stakes encounter.
Even those on the move kept themselves updated, glued to their mobile screens, following every twist and turn of the match.
Excitement Peaks as India Chases 252
As India began their chase in the evening, the atmosphere was electric.
In Agartala, several prominent junctions turned into impromptu fan zones, where young enthusiasts anxiously followed the match.
Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill gave India a solid start, displaying a mix of elegance and aggression. The duo’s effortless stroke play had fans cheering wildly, anticipating an easy cruise to victory.
However, the game took a dramatic turn after the drinks break. New Zealand’s Glenn Phillips produced a stunning catch to dismiss Gill, silencing the crowd for a moment.
As Virat Kohli walked in, hopes soared again, but his stay was short-lived. Silence among the so long noisy fans was so obvious.
Despite the setback, fans were happy as Rohit continued his charge, his aggressive approach keeping India ahead in the chase.
Rohit’s Dismissal Sends Shockwaves
Tension suddenly escalated when Rohit danced down the track for big hit, only to be stumped at 76.
The crowd fell into silence. The match appeared to tilt against India. With clutched fists, fans were pinning their hope on India’s much famed batting line up.
“With every twist in the game, we swung between anxiety and excitement. Some of us nervously bit their nails, while others cheered for every boundary, their emotions mirroring the highs and lows of the contest”, a college student near the City centre in Agartala said after the match.
Drinks break jinx
After the first drinks break, India lost Gill and after the second drinks break Iyer was caught out for 48. With 69 runs needed off 68 balls, KL Rahul joined Axar and fans started to be rejuvenated. But who would know more New Zealanders were set to add more twists.
A Thrilling Finish Sparks Wild Celebrations
With a few more hiccups along the way, India finally inched closer to the target. After Axar’s exit, India Hardik and Jadeja joined KL Rahul.
However, the target became visible and within reach. Fans were praying for Rahul-Jadega to remain calm.
“Our prayers were answered as the moment of triumph arrived when Ravindra Jadeja dispatched the ball to the boundary, sealing India’s victory in emphatic fashion”, said a group of youths who were watching the match in mobile phones.
“As Jadeja raised his hands in elation, the nation erupted in unison …. So also we”, he said.
Fans burst crackers danced in the streets, and waved the tricolor with pride. Many turned on their mobile phone torches, creating a mesmerizing scene of twinkling lights as chants of “India! India!” echoed through the night.
In one part of Agartala, the celebrations took a cultural turn as children and adults alike stepped out of their homes and danced to the rhythmic beats of the traditional Dhaak (drum).
The joy was not confined to the youth – several veteran sports enthusiasts joined in, cherishing the historic win.
Leaders and Fans Laud Team India
The thrilling victory was widely celebrated across the state, with Tripura Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha leading the congratulatory messages.
Hailing the victory, he wrote in a social media post,
“Woohoo! Congratulations Team India on your thrilling victory in the #ICCCricketChampionsTrophy2025…
Your dedication, passion, and teamwork have made the nation proud”.
State Sports Minister Tinku Roy, Tourism Minister Sushanta Chowdhury, and other political figures also praised the Indian team for their grit and determination in lifting the coveted trophy.
Cricket lovers in the state expressed their admiration for both teams. “The way our captain Rohit Sharma was batting, it seemed like India would win comfortably. But credit to New Zealand’s bowlers for making it a thrilling contest,” said one passionate fan.
Another young supporter highlighted the crucial role played by Indian spinners in restricting the Kiwis to 251, setting the stage for a memorable win.
