Introduction
The highly anticipated clash between India and New Zealand in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has taken an unexpected turn, with Indian pace spearhead Mohammed Shami being ruled out of the crucial encounter. As both teams battle to finish at the top of Group A, India will need to adjust their playing XI strategically to maintain their unbeaten streak in the tournament.
This article covers India’s predicted playing XI, match live score updates, head-to-head records, and key factors that could influence the outcome of this blockbuster encounter.
Match Details: IND vs NZ, Champions Trophy 2025
- Match: India vs New Zealand, Match 12, ICC Champions Trophy 2025
- Date: March 2, 2025
- Time: 2:30 PM IST | 9:00 AM GMT | 1:00 PM Local Time
- Venue: Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai
- Live Streaming & Telecast: Star Sports Network, Disney+ Hotstar (India), ICC.tv (International)
Why is Mohammed Shami Ruled Out?
Indian pace bowler Mohammed Shami has been ruled out of the IND vs NZ match due to a minor injury concern. Team management has opted for caution, ensuring he remains fit for the knockout stages.
Shami has been India’s leading wicket-taker in the tournament so far, with 5 wickets in 2 matches. His absence will be a big blow, but India has quality replacements who can step up in his absence.
Possible Replacement for Shami:
- Harshit Rana (Likely to retain his spot)
- Mohammed Siraj (Strong contender to replace Shami)
India’s Predicted Playing XI vs New Zealand
With Mohammed Shami unavailable, here is the predicted playing XI for India against New Zealand:
- Rohit Sharma (c) – Experienced leader and destructive opener.
- Shubman Gill – India’s highest run-scorer in the tournament.
- Virat Kohli – The backbone of India’s batting lineup.
- Shreyas Iyer – A crucial middle-order batsman.
- KL Rahul (wk) – Key wicketkeeper-batsman.
- Hardik Pandya – All-rounder providing balance to the team.
- Ravindra Jadeja – Spin-bowling all-rounder with excellent finishing skills.
- Axar Patel – Adds depth with both bat and ball.
- Mohammed Siraj – Expected to replace Shami as the frontline pacer.
- Harshit Rana – Impressive young fast bowler.
- Kuldeep Yadav – India’s main spin weapon.
New Zealand’s Predicted Playing XI
New Zealand is likely to stick to their winning combination:
- Devon Conway
- Will Young
- Kane Williamson (c)
- Rachin Ravindra
- Tom Latham (wk)
- Glenn Phillips
- Michael Bracewell
- Mitchell Santner
- Matt Henry
- Kyle Jamieson
- William O’Rourke
Head-to-Head Record: India vs New Zealand in ODIs
- Total Matches Played: 118
- India Wins: 60
- New Zealand Wins: 50
- Tied Matches: 1
- No Result: 7
India last faced New Zealand in the 2023 ODI World Cup semi-final, where they emerged victorious by 70 runs.
Live Score Updates: IND vs NZ
For real-time match updates, fans can follow:
- Google Live Score
- ESPN Cricinfo
- Cricbuzz
- BCCI’s Official Website & Social Media Handles
Key Players to Watch in IND vs NZ
India
- Shubman Gill: 147 runs in 2 matches, including a century.
- Virat Kohli: 122 runs, key middle-order batter.
- Kuldeep Yadav: Game-changer with his spin variations.
New Zealand
- Tom Latham: 173 runs, top run-scorer for NZ.
- Rachin Ravindra: Match-winning century vs Bangladesh.
- Michael Bracewell: Leading wicket-taker for NZ.
Pitch & Weather Report – Dubai International Stadium
- Pitch Behavior: Batting-friendly early on, with spinners coming into play later.
- Average First Innings Score: 270-280
- Weather: Clear skies, 25°C temperature, no rain expected.
Who Will Win – India or New Zealand?
With both teams unbeaten in the group stage, this match is crucial to determine who finishes at the top of Group A. India has an edge in recent head-to-head encounters, but New Zealand’s balanced squad makes them formidable opponents.
Match Prediction:
- If India bats first: 280+ score likely, giving them an advantage.
- If New Zealand bats first: 260+ would be competitive.
- Winning Chances: India 55% – New Zealand 45%
Final Thoughts
India vs New Zealand in the Champions Trophy 2025 is set to be a thrilling contest despite the absence of Mohammed Shami. Both teams are aiming to top Group A and enter the semi-finals with momentum. Stay tuned for live score updates and post-match analysis!
Who do you think will win this crucial match? Let us know in the comments!