India vs New Zealand – Final Preview & Prediction | ICC Champions Trophy 2025

The highly anticipated final of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will see India take on New Zealand in what promises to be an electrifying encounter at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Both teams have displayed dominant performances throughout the tournament, making this clash a fitting grand finale.

India enters the final unbeaten, having won all their matches convincingly. Their batting unit, led by Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Shubman Gill, has been in sensational form, while their bowling attack, spearheaded by Mohammed Shami and Kuldeep Yadav, has been lethal. India defeated Australia in the semi-finals, showcasing their resilience in a high-pressure chase.

Match Info

• Match: IND vs NZ, Final, ICC Champions Trophy, 2025
• Date: Sunday, March 09, 2025
• Time: 6:00 PM
• Venue: Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai

Recent Performance & Form

India (Last 5 Matches – W W W W W)

• March 04, 2025: Semi-Final – India beat Australia by 4 wickets
• March 02, 2025: Group A – India beat New Zealand by 44 runs
• February 23, 2025: Group A – India beat Pakistan by 6 wickets
• February 20, 2025: Group A – India beat Bangladesh by 6 wickets
• February 12, 2025: ODI – India beat England by 142 runs

New Zealand (Last 5 Matches – W W W L W)

• March 05, 2025: Semi-Final – New Zealand beat South Africa by 50 runs
• March 02, 2025: Group A – New Zealand lost to India by 44 runs
• February 24, 2025: Group A – New Zealand beat Bangladesh by 5 wickets
• February 19, 2025: Group A – New Zealand beat Pakistan by 60 runs
• February 14, 2025: ODI – New Zealand beat Pakistan by 5 wickets

Head to head Last 5 Matches

India has dominated recent encounters, winning all of the last five meetings between the two teams:

• India won by 44 runs
• India won by 70 runs
• India won by 4 wickets (with 12 balls remaining)
• India won by 90 runs
• India won by 8 wickets (with 179 balls remaining)

India Squad Playing:

Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Arshdeep Singh, Harshit Rana, Varun Chakaravarthy

Key Players to Watch:

• Virat Kohli & Rohit Sharma: The experienced duo has been in excellent form and will be key in setting up a big total or chasing down a target.
• Kuldeep Yadav: The left-arm wrist spinner has been India’s trump card, consistently taking wickets in the middle overs.
• Hardik Pandya: His all-round ability adds great balance to the side, making him a crucial asset.

New Zealand Squad Playing:

Mitchell Santner (c), Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Matt Henry, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, William ORourke, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Nathan Smith, Kane Williamson, Will Young, Jacob Duffy, Kyle Jamieson

Key Players to Watch:

• Kane Williamson & Devon Conway: The backbone of New Zealand’s batting, they will need to step up against India’s strong bowling attack.
• Matt Henry & Kyle Jamieson: Their ability to take early wickets and restrict India’s top order will be crucial.
• Rachin Ravindra: The young all-rounder has been impactful with both bat and ball, adding depth to the squad.

Pitch Report & Conditions

The Dubai International Cricket Stadium is expected to provide a balanced wicket. The pitch will likely assist fast bowlers under lights, but as the match progresses, spinners may also come into play. Dew could be a factor in the second innings, making chasing slightly easier. A score around 280-300 could be a winning total.

Match Prediction

India holds a strong edge in this contest, given their recent dominance over New Zealand and their flawless record in the tournament. Their batting lineup has been far more consistent, and their bowling attack has been in top form. However, New Zealand is known for stepping up in big matches, and with experienced players like Kane Williamson and Mitchell Santner, they can pose a serious challenge.

Prediction: India to win the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 by 30-50 runs or 5-6 wickets.

Betting Tips & Insights

• Top Batter: Virat Kohli – In great form, and his record in finals is exceptional.
• Top Bowler: Kuldeep Yadav – Likely to be the game-changer with his spin.
• Most Sixes: Rishabh Pant – Aggressive batting style could help him clear the ropes often.
• Match Winner: India – Stronger overall team balance and depth.

Expect an intense final as these two teams battle for ICC Champions Trophy glory!