India vs New Zealand: Road to the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Final
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has been an action-packed tournament, and now it all comes down to the final showdown between India and New Zealand at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
India has been the most dominant team in the tournament, remaining unbeaten in all their matches. With a powerful top order featuring Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, and Virat Kohli, India has posted impressive totals throughout the competition. Their bowling attack, led by Mohammed Shami and Kuldeep Yadav, has been equally effective in dismantling opposition batting line-ups.
New Zealand, on the other hand, has once again proven why they are one of the most consistent teams in world cricket. After a dramatic semi-final victory over South Africa, Kane Williamson’s men are looking to clinch their maiden ICC Champions Trophy title. The likes of Rachin Ravindra and Glenn Phillips have been crucial in providing stability to the middle order, while the bowlers have performed exceptionally under pressure.
With both teams evenly matched, the final promises to be a thrilling contest.
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Pitch Report for India vs New Zealand ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Final
The Dubai International Cricket Stadium offers a balanced pitch that has something for both batsmen and bowlers.
- Batting Conditions: The pitch is expected to be good for batting, especially under lights. The ball comes onto the bat nicely, making stroke play easier.
- Bowling Factors: Spinners are likely to play a crucial role as the match progresses, with the pitch offering some grip and turn.
- First-Innings Score: The average first-innings score at this venue in recent ODIs has been 260-270 runs, meaning a competitive total should be around 280+.
- Dew Factor: If dew comes into play in the second innings, it could make bowling difficult, especially for spinners.
Winning the toss and chasing might be the preferred option in this crucial final.
India vs New Zealand Predicted Playing XI
India’s Probable XI
- Rohit Sharma (C)
- Shubman Gill
- Virat Kohli
- Shreyas Iyer
- KL Rahul (wk)
- Hardik Pandya
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Axar Patel
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Mohammed Shami
- Arshdeep Singh
New Zealand’s Probable XI
- Tom Latham (wk)
- Devon Conway
- Kane Williamson (C)
- Rachin Ravindra
- Daryl Mitchell
- Glenn Phillips
- Michael Bracewell
- Mitchell Santner
- Matt Henry
- Kyle Jamieson
- William O’Rourke
For more information visit : https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/icc-champions-trophy-2024-25-1459031/india-vs-new-zealand-12th-match-group-a-1466425/match-preview
Key Players to Watch in India vs New Zealand Final 2025
India’s Key Players
- Virat Kohli: The Indian legend has been in top form, delivering match-winning performances. His ability to anchor an innings makes him a crucial player.
- Kuldeep Yadav: With the Dubai pitch expected to assist spinners, his variations and wicket-taking ability could be game-changing.
New Zealand’s Key Players
- Kane Williamson: New Zealand’s captain will be pivotal in guiding his team through pressure situations. His ability to play spin well makes him key against India’s bowling attack.
- Mitchell Santner: The left-arm spinner has been New Zealand’s most consistent bowler in the tournament, and his spell in the middle overs could define the game.
Match Strategy & Analysis: India vs New Zealand Final 2025
India’s Game Plan
- Strong Start: Openers Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill need to give India a solid start, capitalizing on the powerplay.
- Middle-Order Stability: The likes of Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer must ensure India builds momentum and avoids collapses.
- Spin Domination: Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja will play a crucial role in keeping New Zealand’s scoring rate in check.
New Zealand’s Game Plan
- Early Wickets: Fast bowlers Matt Henry and Kyle Jamieson must get early breakthroughs to put India on the back foot.
- Steady Batting Approach: The top-order must be careful against India’s pace attack and build partnerships.
- Utilizing Spinners: If the pitch slows down, Santner and Bracewell could make scoring difficult for India’s batsmen.
Who Has the Edge? India or New Zealand?
On paper, India looks stronger, with a well-rounded squad and a deep batting lineup. Their unbeaten run in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 shows their dominance. However, New Zealand has a history of punching above their weight in ICC tournaments. Their tactical approach and ability to handle pressure make them a formidable opponent.
A lot will depend on how well New Zealand’s bowlers contain India’s top order and whether India’s spinners can trouble New Zealand’s middle order.
Conclusion: The Stage is Set for an Epic ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Final
The India vs New Zealand ICC Champions Trophy Final 2025 promises to be an exciting and high-intensity clash. With both teams aiming for glory, cricket fans around the world are in for a thrilling contest.
📌 For live updates and in-depth match coverage, visit: Matt Henry’s Injury Blow: New Zealand Faces a Major Setback Ahead of CT Final 2025.
