New Zealand vs India | ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Final

The stage is set for an electrifying showdown between New Zealand vs India in the final of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. This match would have every lover of football cheering for one team or the other. We have had a tournament worthy of excitement and anticipation, and both these teams have received acclaim for their performances throughout. For centuries, Match 2 of this dual was the deal-breaker of a high-octane affair with high drama, catastrophe, and individual brilliance all in one.

After a masterclass innings by Virat Kohli, India has made it to the final with a dominating victory over Australia in the semi-finals. In contrast, New Zealand blitzed their way into the final with a comprehensive win over England, spearheaded by Kane Williamson and Rachin Ravindra. Cricket fans across the globe would witness a thrilling contest as both teams are at their best.

Key Players to Watch

India:

1. Virat Kohli—Kohli has been the central pillar of India’s batting order and is expected to play a crucial role with the bat in hand. No one handles pressure better than him, and a big hit from him could prove crucial in deciding victory or defeat.
2. Rohit Sharma—The skipper’s attacking style early on can give India a good start. If he gets going, he can snatch the game from the opposition within the first ten overs.
3. Ravindra Jadeja—He makes up for the team’s imbalance with keys with both bat and ball. An offensive game-changer, too, he can turn the match with his arrow-straight throws and gymnastic catches.
4. Shubman Gill—The talented opener has been in terrific form in the World Cup and has been giving the Indian innings great starts. His adventurous approach against good-quality bowlers will be crucial in laying a solid foundation.

New Zealand:

1. Kane Williamson’s ability to hold fort under pressure and build on innings makes him irreplaceable. His leadership in the game will be a vital concern in New Zealand’s play.
2. Rachin Ravindra—The talent of the future, his recent run of form means he will become a key player with both bat and ball. His ability to adjust to the varying nature of the matches will serve him well in this final.
3. Devon Conway — A class batter who can construct big innings. He is the linchpin of the New Zealand batting order.
4. Mitchell Santner – Provides more reliability with the ball and will be an important cog in the middle overs. His variations and control can dry up the flow of runs and apply pressure on the Indians.

Head-to-Head Stats (ODIs & Champions Trophy)

India does not often lose to New Zealand vs India, but we do not lose to many teams. Here’s how their head-to-head record in the ICC Champions Trophy looks:

1. Total Matches Played: 6
2. India Wins: 3
3. New Zealand Wins: 3
4. Last Meet: India won by seven wickets (2021 CT)

India has had the upper hand in ODIs against New Zealand in recent years, but the Black Caps have invariably risen to the occasion in all-important ICC matches; this final could be no different. New Zealand’s toughness under the duress of knockouts has been one of its hallmarks; India, with a more extensive batting lineup, has the edge.

Predictions – Who Will Win?

The final is difficult to predict as both teams have been impressive throughout the tournament. But there are a few things that will help determine the winner:

1. Firepower in Batting: If Kohli, Rohit and Gill fire, India can either set and chase down any target. Their top order is in great touch, and a good beginning will leave them with a stranglehold.
2. New Zealand’s Pace Attack: Early breakthroughs will be key for the Kiwis, who will look to Boult to lead their attack. If they can break through India’s top three early, pressure will be placed on the middle order.
3. Spin Battleground: With Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav, India has a slight edge in the spin department. New Zealand’s middle order has faltered against good spin, which could be a decisive factor.
4. Toss Factor: The Dubai pitch has been sluggish, and it could definitely favour the team that wins the toss. Under lights, the chasing team may have the advantage. Batting second will be far easier if there is any dew.
5. Fielding Standards: Both the teams are terrific on the field, but the outfielder has been a touch better for India in comparison. In a pressure cooker game, saving key runs can be the difference.
6. Edge: India slightly because there is more depth in batting, though New Zealand has proven to be a tough opponent in ICC events. Expect a nail-biting contest!

Live Updates

Follow along for live updates, including:

• Toss Result: A significant determinant in how the game will be approached.
• Playing XIs: Both sides will settle their best possible teams before the commencement of play.
• Over-by-Over Scores: Follow along with the live match and score.
• Why Highlights & Performances: highlights from the match – match-turning dismissals, breathtaking catches and match-winning innings.
• Match Report: Up and down the turnover, keeper wipe, the winning syllable of the final.

Champions Trophy Final: New Zealand vs India

A historic Champions Trophy final is upon us. Will India lift the title, or will New Zealand win  its first? Cricket fans across the globe can’t wait to see this battle! Whatever the outcome, it is a dramatic battle of skill between teams to savour.