India vs New Zealand ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Final: Preview, Key Players, and How to Watch
Cricket fans worldwide are set for a thrilling showdown as India and New Zealand lock horns in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final at Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Sunday. The match, starting at 2:30 PM IST, promises high-octane action as both teams vie for the coveted trophy. Here’s everything you need to know about this epic clash.
Road to the Final: Unbeaten India vs Resilient New Zealand
Team India enters the final with a flawless record, dominating Group A with wins against Bangladesh, Pakistan, and New Zealand. Their momentum continued into the semi-finals, where they edged past Australia by four wickets. Key performers include:
- Virat Kohli: Leading India’s charge with 217 runs in four matches.
- Mohammed Shami & Varun Chakravarthy: The bowling duo has been lethal, claiming 15 wickets combined.
New Zealand, despite a 44-run loss to India in the group stage, showcased resilience by defeating Pakistan, Bangladesh, and South Africa (in the semi-finals). Their campaign hinges on:
- Rachin Ravindra: The batting powerhouse, amassing 226 runs at an average of 75.33.
- Matt Henry: The tournament’s top wicket-taker with 10 scalps.
Head-to-Head: A Historic Rivalry
In 119 ODI encounters, India leads with 61 wins vs New Zealand’s 50. However, the Champions Trophy history adds spice:
- 2000 Final: New Zealand clinched their sole title by defeating India.
- 2013: India avenged this, lifting the trophy for the second time.
- Current Streak: India rides a 6-match ODI winning streak against the Black Caps.
Key Factors for the Final
- Pitch & Conditions: Dubai’s batting-friendly track may favor India’s star-studded lineup, but dew could challenge bowlers.
- Pressure Handling: New Zealand’s knack for excelling in knockouts vs India’s recent dominance.
- X-Factor Players: Watch for Kohli’s consistency, Ravindra’s flair, and Henry’s pace attack.
How to Watch: Live Streaming & Telecast
- India: Broadcast on Star Sports Network; live streaming via JioHotstar.
- Global Fans: Check local listings for Sky Sports (NZ), Willow TV (USA), or Supersport (SA).
Final Prediction: Who Will Lift the Trophy?
India’s unbeaten run and depth in both batting and bowling make them slight favorites. However, New Zealand’s tactical brilliance in ICC events could spring a surprise. Will India secure a third Champions Trophy title, or will the Kiwis reclaim glory after 25 years?