New Delhi, March 8 (HS): The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final will take place between India and New Zealand in Dubai on March 9. This matchup follows India’s impressive win over New Zealand in the group stage just a week earlier. India has been dominant throughout the tournament, while New Zealand, having played at various venues, aims to find its stride against a familiar Dubai backdrop. A key decision for India involves whether to include an extra fast bowler instead of spinner Kuldeep Yadav, balancing the risks against New Zealand’s left-handed batsmen. Conversely, New Zealand may consider replacing out-of-form Will Young with Devon Conway.

The pitch has been slow and spin-friendly, favoring teams with effective spin bowling. India’s spinners are known for their accuracy, which could be beneficial in this game. New Zealand’s pace bowler Matt Henry presents a significant threat, having taken 10 wickets against Indian batsmen in powerplays before. However, he sustained a shoulder injury during the semi-finals, casting doubt on his fitness. New Zealand’s spinners, Mitchell Santner and Michael Bracewell, have excelled in the tournament, particularly Santner, who has maintained impressive accuracy.

Virat Kohli has struggled against left-arm spinners, though Shubman Gill has performed well against them. Rachin Ravindra is New Zealand’s top run-scorer, and his early dismissal in the group stages against India was crucial. New Zealand boasts excellent fielding statistics, highlighting their catching efficiency of 91.1%, while India has struggled, missing several catches. Historically, India has had the upper hand over New Zealand in recent encounters. However, given New Zealand’s balanced attack and solid fielding, the final promises to be a thrilling contest as India seeks to uphold its unbeaten streak.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar