The grand finale of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy is here! On March 9, 2025, cricket fans across the world will witness an electrifying battle between two of the strongest teams in modern cricket—India and New Zealand. Set to take place at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, this high-stakes encounter will determine who lifts the coveted trophy.
Both teams have displayed outstanding performances throughout the tournament, making their way to the final with grit, determination, and class. This match is not just about winning a title; it’s about legacy, redemption, and rewriting history.
India’s Road to the Final
India has been in red-hot form, dominating the tournament with exceptional performances. Here’s a look at how they reached the final:
- Group Stage: India started their campaign with a thumping win over Bangladesh, followed by a commanding victory over arch-rivals Pakistan. Their third match against New Zealand was a thriller, where India secured a close win, topping Group A.
- Semi-Final: India faced Australia in the semi-final. Led by Virat Kohli’s masterclass knock (84 off 67 balls) and an incredible bowling effort by Mohammed Shami (4/38), India sealed a comfortable 7-wicket victory.
- Key Performers:
- Virat Kohli – India’s batting mainstay
- Rohit Sharma – Power-packed starts
- Mohammed Shami & Jasprit Bumrah – Deadly bowling duo
India will now look to carry their momentum into the final and claim their third ICC Champions Trophy title (after 2002 and 2013).
New Zealand’s Journey to the Final
New Zealand, known for their resilience and ability to punch above their weight, has had an impressive campaign:
- Group Stage: The Kiwis started strong with wins over Pakistan and Bangladesh, securing their semi-final berth.
- Semi-Final: Against South Africa, Kane Williamson played a captain’s knock, scoring a brilliant 102 off 92 balls. Along with Rachin Ravindra’s all-round heroics, New Zealand secured a thrilling 50-run win.
- Key Performers:
- Kane Williamson – The backbone of the batting lineup
- Rachin Ravindra – Emerging star
- Trent Boult & Tim Southee – Experienced bowling attack
New Zealand will be eager to win their first-ever ICC Champions Trophy, adding to their ICC World Test Championship (WTC) triumph in 2021.
Head-to-Head: India vs New Zealand in ICC Events
India and New Zealand have had some unforgettable clashes in ICC tournaments. Here’s a look at their recent history:
| Tournament | Match Result |
|---|---|
| 2019 ICC World Cup (Semi-final) | New Zealand won |
| 2021 ICC World Test Championship Final | New Zealand won |
| 2023 ICC World Cup (Semi-final) | India won |
| 2025 ICC Champions Trophy (Group Stage) | India won |
While New Zealand has been India’s nemesis in knockouts, India has had the upper hand recently. Will India continue their dominance, or will New Zealand strike back?
Key Battles to Watch Out For
🔥 Virat Kohli vs Trent Boult – A classic battle between batting genius and swing master. Can Kohli dominate Boult’s lethal new-ball spell?
🔥 Jasprit Bumrah vs Kane Williamson – Bumrah’s deadly Yorkers vs Williamson’s impeccable technique. Who will come out on top?
🔥 Rohit Sharma vs Tim Southee – Can India’s skipper counter Southee’s swing and power India to a flying start?
🔥 Rachin Ravindra vs Kuldeep Yadav – New Zealand’s rising star vs India’s spin wizard. Will Rachin handle Kuldeep’s trickery?
Match Venue and Pitch Report
- Venue: Dubai International Cricket Stadium
- Pitch Report: The Dubai pitch has been batting-friendly, with an average first innings score of 290+. However, spinners come into play as the match progresses. Chasing has been easier under lights.
- Weather Forecast: Clear skies with no rain, and temperatures around 28°C-32°C. Dew might play a role in the second innings.
Predicted Playing XIs
India:
- Rohit Sharma (C)
- Shubman Gill
- Virat Kohli
- KL Rahul (WK)
- Suryakumar Yadav
- Hardik Pandya
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Mohammed Shami
- Jasprit Bumrah
- Mohammed Siraj
New Zealand:
- Devon Conway
- Rachin Ravindra
- Kane Williamson (C)
- Daryl Mitchell
- Glenn Phillips
- Tom Latham (WK)
- Mitchell Santner
- Tim Southee
- Trent Boult
- Lockie Ferguson
- Ish Sodhi
Match Prediction: Who Will Win?
India enters the final as favorites due to their superior form, star-studded lineup, and psychological advantage from beating New Zealand earlier in the tournament. However, New Zealand thrives under pressure and has a habit of upsetting big teams in ICC knockouts.
- If India’s top order fires, they could post an unchaseable total or successfully chase any target.
- If New Zealand’s bowlers strike early, they can put India under serious pressure.
💬 Who do you think will win? Comment below and share your predictions!
Final Thoughts
This India vs New Zealand clash is set to be an epic battle between two world-class teams. Whether it’s India’s aggressive batting lineup or New Zealand’s never-give-up attitude, fans are in for a thrilling encounter.
📅 Match Date: March 9, 2025
📍 Venue: Dubai International Cricket Stadium
⏰ Time: 2:00 PM IST | 10:30 AM GMT
📺 Live on: Star Sports, Hotstar, Sky Sports, ESPN
🏆 Will India lift their third Champions Trophy, or will New Zealand create history? Let’s find out on March 9! 🎉🔥