Match Overview
The grand finale of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to take place on March 9 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Both India and New Zealand have showcased exceptional performances throughout the tournament, setting the stage for a riveting contest. India, under the leadership of Rohit Sharma, has remained unbeaten, displaying dominance in both batting and bowling departments. New Zealand, captained by Mitchell Santner, has demonstrated resilience and strategic brilliance, making their way to the final with commendable performances.
Probable Playing XIs
India:
- Rohit Sharma (c)
- Shubman Gill
- Virat Kohli
- Shreyas Iyer
- Axar Patel
- KL Rahul (wk)
- Hardik Pandya
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Mohammed Shami
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Varun Chakravarthy
New Zealand:
- Will Young
- Rachin Ravindra
- Kane Williamson
- Daryl Mitchell
- Tom Latham (wk)
- Glenn Phillips
- Michael Bracewell
- Mitchell Santner (c)
- Matt Henry
- Kyle Jamieson
- William O’Rourke
Note: Probable XIs are based on recent performances and team strategies.
Pitch and Weather Conditions
The Dubai International Cricket Stadium has historically offered a balanced pitch, providing assistance to both batsmen and bowlers. However, in recent matches, the pitch has exhibited a tendency to be slightly slow, offering more assistance to spinners. Teams batting second have found success, indicating a possible advantage in chasing targets. The weather is expected to be clear, with temperatures ranging between 24°C and 27°C, providing ideal conditions for cricket.
Key Players to Watch
India
Virat Kohli
The stalwart of Indian cricket, Virat Kohli, has been in sublime form throughout the tournament. His ability to anchor the innings and accelerate when needed makes him a crucial asset. Kohli’s record against New Zealand is impressive, with 1,645 runs at an average of 58.75, including six centuries and nine fifties.
Shubman Gill
Opening the innings, Shubman Gill has displayed exceptional consistency. Against New Zealand, he has amassed 590 runs in 10 ODI innings at an average of 84.28 and a strike rate of 109.66, including two centuries and two fifties.
Mohammed Shami
Leading the pace attack, Mohammed Shami has been instrumental in providing early breakthroughs. Against New Zealand, he has taken 37 wickets at an average of 19.32, including two five-wicket hauls.
Varun Chakravarthy
The ‘mystery spinner’ has added a new dimension to India’s bowling attack. In his Champions Trophy debut against New Zealand, Chakravarthy delivered a match-winning performance, taking 5-42 and securing a 44-run win for India.
New Zealand
Kane Williamson
The backbone of New Zealand’s batting lineup, Kane Williamson, brings stability and experience. Against India, he has scored 1,147 runs at an average of 44.11, including ten fifties and a century.
Tom Latham
Wicketkeeper-batsman Tom Latham has been in stellar form, leading the tournament’s run charts with impactful innings, including a century and a half-century in his recent outings.
Matt Henry
The spearhead of New Zealand’s bowling attack, Matt Henry, has been effective with the new ball, taking 13 wickets in his last 10 ODIs with an economy of 6.35.
Mitchell Santner
Leading the side, Mitchell Santner’s all-round capabilities have been pivotal. His left-arm spin, coupled with handy contributions with the bat, adds depth to the team. Santner’s leadership has been instrumental in New Zealand’s journey to the final.
Fantasy Cricket Tips
Constructing a successful fantasy cricket team requires a strategic blend of in