As the stage is set for the grand finale of the Champions Trophy 2025, the iconic Dubai International Stadium is ready to witness a thrilling showdown between India and New Zealand. Both teams are determined to break their long-standing ICC ODI trophy drought.
India last claimed an ICC ODI title in 2013, while New Zealand’s solitary triumph came in 2000. However, the Kiwis have had the upper hand in knockout clashes, leading 3-1 in head-to-head encounters.
With the pitch from the India-Pakistan match expected to be reused in Dubai, spin is likely to play a crucial role, adding an extra layer of intrigue to this blockbuster contest.
INDIA
The Men in Blue have been invincible so far, winning all their games convincingly. Having adapted seamlessly to Dubai’s conditions, India appears well-equipped for the final.
In a battle where spinners could decide the outcome, India’s spin attack has been operating with remarkable precision. Varun Chakaravarthy’s inclusion has added a new dimension — his incredible 5/42 performance against New Zealand in the group stage choked the Kiwi batters in his maiden ICC ODI appearance.
Axar Patel and Ravindra Jadeja have been exceptional in controlling the middle overs, while Kuldeep Yadav will be eager to shed his inconsistency tag and deliver a strong performance in this crucial match.
On the batting front, openers Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill have been below par lately. If Matt Henry regains fitness, India’s top order will face a tough challenge.
Virat Kohli remains India’s pillar of strength, delivering two match-winning knocks in the tournament. His hunger to perform in big games could see him replicate his 2013 Champions Trophy heroics.
With Shreyas Iyer, Axar Patel, and KL Rahul anchoring the middle order, India boasts a formidable lineup that can adapt to any situation. Be it rebuilding from 3/30 or accelerating the run rate with a calculated assault, they have proven their versatility.
Hardik Pandya’s all-round brilliance has been vital consistently finishing innings strongly and chipping in with crucial breakthroughs. This has allowed India to operate with just one frontline pacer and that paceman, Mohammad Shami, has been lethal, reinforcing his reputation as a big-match performer.
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New Zealand
Unlike India, New Zealand has endured a demanding travel schedule throughout the tournament. However, if they can produce a strong performance in the final, all the travel woes will be forgotten.
The Blackcaps have played just one game in Dubai, but that experience would have offered valuable insights into the pitch conditions. They’ll aim to avoid the mistake of letting India bat first and consolidate.
To counter spin, New Zealand could consider promoting Tom Latham, one of the finest players of spin ahead of Daryl Mitchell, who has struggled against slower bowlers.
The key to New Zealand’s batting success will rely heavily on Will Young and Rachin Ravindra. Rachin’s impressive ICC record with all five of his ODI centuries coming in just 15 innings — underlines his rich vein of form.
Kane Williamson has been in sublime touch, though his composed knock of 81 in Dubai showed signs of struggle against India’s spinners. He’ll be keen to improve his strike rotation and minimize dot balls in the final.
On the bowling front, Matt Henry India’s recurring nemesis could prove decisive if he recovers in time. Alongside Kyle Jamieson and Mitchell Santner, the trio forms a potent attack capable of troubling India’s batters.
Also Read: IND Vs NZ Champions Trophy Final: Will New Zealand Tweak Their Playing XI For The Ultimate Showdown?
