Rohit Sharma’s incredible streak of losing the toss in ODIs continued as New Zealand opted to bat first in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Final, taking place in Dubai on Sunday. India decided to field an unchanged XI, backing the same team that has been dominant throughout the tournament. Meanwhile, New Zealand made one change to their squad—Matt Henry, who injured his shoulder in the semifinal, was ruled out, and Nathan Smith was brought into the playing XI.
India’s Unbeaten Run and Their Quest for Glory
India has been on a phenomenal run in the tournament, reminiscent of their dominant 2023 ODI World Cup campaign, where they won all their matches leading up to the final before faltering against Australia. However, this time, the Men in Blue have already exorcised their demons by defeating the Aussies convincingly in the semifinal, setting up a thrilling final clash against New Zealand.
New Zealand, on the other hand, has been in outstanding form as well. They decimated South Africa in the semifinal, putting up the highest-ever team total in Champions Trophy history. The Kiwis, known for their ability to rise to the occasion in ICC events, will be eager to clinch their maiden Champions Trophy title.
Key Players to Watch Out For
India:
Rohit Sharma: The Indian skipper has been in fine touch and will be crucial at the top of the order.
Virat Kohli: A big-match player, Kohli will look to anchor the innings and steer India to a commanding position.
Shreyas Iyer & KL Rahul: Both batsmen have shown consistency in the middle order and will play a vital role.
Mohammed Shami: India’s pace spearhead, Shami has been lethal with the new ball and at the death.
Kuldeep Yadav & Varun Chakaravarthy: The spin duo will look to exploit the Dubai conditions and trouble the Kiwi batters.
New Zealand:
Kane Williamson: The experienced campaigner will hold the key in stabilizing New Zealand’s batting.
Rachin Ravindra & Daryl Mitchell: Both have been exceptional throughout the tournament and will aim to carry their form into the final.
Glenn Phillips & Michael Bracewell: Their all-round abilities can tilt the game in New Zealand’s favor.
Kyle Jamieson: The towering pacer will look to provide early breakthroughs.
Mitchell Santner: As captain, his leadership and spin bowling will be crucial in controlling the Indian batting lineup.
Pitch Report and Weather Conditions
The Dubai pitch has traditionally been a good batting surface, but it does offer assistance to spinners as the game progresses. With a dry and abrasive surface, the team batting first will look to post a total above 300 to challenge the opposition. Dew could play a factor in the second innings, making the chase slightly easier under the lights.
Weather-wise, it is expected to be a warm evening with no chances of rain, ensuring an uninterrupted contest.
Head-to-Head in ICC Knockouts
India and New Zealand have had some memorable battles in ICC knockout matches in recent years. The Kiwis famously knocked India out in the 2019 World Cup semifinal, while India got their revenge in the 2023 World Cup semifinal. This final adds another thrilling chapter to their growing rivalry in ICC events.
Playing XIs
India: Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Axar Patel, KL Rahul (wk), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Shami, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakaravarthy
New Zealand: Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham (wk), Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner (c), Kyle Jamieson, William O’Rourke, Nathan Smith
Match Prediction
With both teams in top form, this final promises to be a high-voltage clash. India, with their all-round strength and experience in big matches, might have a slight edge, but New Zealand’s fighting spirit makes them formidable opponents. A thrilling battle awaits cricket fans around the world as these two teams vie for the prestigious Champions Trophy title!