India and New Zealand will take on each other in the final of the Champions Trophy 2025 final at the Dubai International Stadium. The match will take place on the 9th of March from 2:30 PM (IST). Both the teams have what it takes to win the title. In their previous encounter, India hammered New Zealand at the same venue by 44 runs in their Group A match. It might have little to nothing when they take on each other in the final.
Come the big game, one can expect both sides to put on a tough fight. The wicket is likely to be on the slower side as it has been. New Zealand might have to change their strategy to claim the title against a settled Indian team. Having played all the tournament at the same venue, India will have a slight advantage of reading the wicket. New Zealand will have to be at their best to beat India in the final.
Here’s the predicted playing XI of New Zealand for their match against India in the final of the Champions Trophy 2025 –
Top Order – Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, and Kane Williamson
Will Young and Rachin Ravindra could continue to open the innings for New Zealand. Young played a big role in NZ’s win over Pakistan. On the other hand, Rachin was instrumental in his team’s wins over Bangladesh and South Africa by smashing a hundred each against them. To follow them would be Kane Williamson who could be crucial as an anchor on a slow surface like Dubai.
Middle Order – Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham (WK), and Glenn Phillips
In the middle order, NZ has some powerful strikers. Daryl Mitchell might bat at 4. He hasn’t had a tournament like the ODI WC 2023 and would love to change it on the big day. Tom Latham will keep the wickets and bat at 5. He was good in the game against Pakistan. NZ’s big strength has been Glenn Phillips with his finishing and fielding. If required, he will be helpful with the ball in Dubai.
Lower Middle Order – Michael Bracewell and Mitchell Santner (C)
In the lower middle order, NZ has two spin-bowling All-rounders. Michael Bracewell and Mitchell Santner will be key for NZ in the helpful conditions in Dubai. The 2000 Champions would love to see their spinners dominate the proceedings. If required, they can add some runs lower down the order. Santner has done a fair job as a skipper.
Bowlers – Kyle Jamieson, Matt Henry, and Will O’Rourke
Apart from the spin-bowling All-rounders, NZ is likely to continue with an all pace attack. Matt Henry is reportedly doubtful for the final. But given what’s at stake, he might force himself into the match. Kyle Jamieson is likely to operate with the new ball and at the death alongside Henry. Will O’Rourke could be the first change. The spinners will be crucial from their respective ends in the middle overs.
New Zealand’s playing XI in the Champions Trophy 2025 final against India –
Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham (WK), Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner (C), Kyle Jamieson, Matt Henry, Will O’Rourke
Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.