The stage is set for an exciting showdown between India and New Zealand in the final of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled to take place at Dubai International Stadium on March 9, 2025. India, having maintained an unbeaten record throughout the tournament, will face a motivated New Zealand team determined to seek revenge for their earlier loss to India in the group stage. Let’s take a look at the journey both teams have had to reach this momentous final.
India’s Road to the Final
India’s impeccable form in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has been nothing short of impressive, with the team winning all four of their matches. Their journey to the final began with a dominant six-wicket victory over Bangladesh, powered by Mohammed Shami’s brilliant 5/53 and Shubman Gill’s unbeaten 101*. In their next match against Pakistan, Virat Kohli’s match-winning 100* helped India chase down 241 runs with ease.
India’s third victory came against New Zealand, where they triumphed by 44 runs, thanks to a five-wicket haul from Varun Chakravarthy and solid contributions from Shreyas Iyer (79) and Hardik Pandya (45). In their final group-stage match, India secured a four-wicket win over Australia, driven by Kohli’s 84 and valuable lower-order contributions. With a perfect record so far, India will now aim to clinch the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 title while keeping their unbeaten streak intact.
New Zealand’s Resilient Journey
New Zealand, after their loss to India in the group stage, has bounced back strongly and is now determined to avenge that defeat in the final. Their campaign in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has been full of resilience, with solid performances from both the bat and ball. Their only defeat came against India in Dubai, a match that didn’t prevent them from advancing to the knockout stage.
New Zealand started their tournament with a commanding 60-run win over Pakistan, driven by centuries from Will Young and Tom Latham. They followed this up with a comprehensive five-wicket win against Bangladesh, where Michael Bracewell starred with 4/23 and Rachin Ravindra contributed with a match-winning century. Despite their loss to India, New Zealand secured their place in the semi-finals.
In the semi-finals, New Zealand showed their strength once again with a dominant 50-run win over South Africa. This victory was highlighted by centuries from Ravindra and Kane Williamson, coupled with excellent bowling performances. Now, New Zealand heads into the final, eager to settle the score with India and claim the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 title.
The Ultimate Showdown
As the two finalists prepare for battle, both India and New Zealand come with strong motives and determination to secure the ultimate prize. India aims to continue their unbeaten run and add another ICC title to their collection, while New Zealand looks to avenge their earlier loss and claim their first-ever Champions Trophy victory. The clash on March 9, 2025, promises to be a thrilling contest between two of the tournament’s strongest teams.
Key Players to Watch
India:
- Virat Kohli: The seasoned batsman has been in exceptional form throughout the tournament, playing a key role in stabilizing the innings and anchoring the top order with consistency and composure.
- Varun Chakravarthy: A rising star in the spin department, Chakravarthy’s game-changing five-wicket haul against New Zealand in the group stages was pivotal in India’s victory. His unique spin variations make him an invaluable asset heading into the final.
New Zealand:
- Kane Williamson: The captain’s brilliant century in the semi-finals highlights his ability to perform under pressure. Williamson’s leadership and batting strength are crucial to New Zealand’s chances in the final.
- Rachin Ravindra: After his match-winning century in the semi-finals, Ravindra has firmly established himself as a key player. His all-round abilities add balance and depth to New Zealand’s lineup, making him a player to watch closely.
