New Delhi: The stage is set for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final as India and New Zealand lock horns on March 9 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. This high-voltage clash will determine the new champions of world cricket.
Venue and Timing
The tournament was originally hosted by Pakistan, but due to scheduling decisions, India played all their matches in Dubai. The final had two possible venues: Lahore and Dubai. However, as soon as India defeated Australia in the semi-final, it was confirmed that the final would be played in Dubai.
The match will start at 2:30 PM IST, with the toss scheduled for 2:00 PM IST. This timing remains consistent with all previous matches of the tournament.
New Zealand’s Dominance in ICC Knockout Matches
History favors New Zealand in ICC knockout matches. In the four knockout encounters between these teams, the Kiwis have won three times, while India has won just once.
Here’s a look at their past ICC knockout battles:
2000 Champions Trophy Final – New Zealand defeated India
2019 ODI World Cup Semi-final – New Zealand won
2021 World Test Championship Final – New Zealand won
2023 ODI World Cup Semi-final – India finally broke the streak and won
India’s Unbeaten Run in the Tournament
India has been in sensational form throughout the Champions Trophy 2025, winning all their matches so far:
League Stage: India defeated Bangladesh, Pakistan, and New Zealand
Semi-final: India beat Australia convincingly
Meanwhile, New Zealand also showcased their dominance, reaching the final after an impressive win against South Africa in the semi-finals.
India vs New Zealand Head-to-Head in ODIs
Total Matches: 119
India Wins: 61
New Zealand Wins: 50
No Result: 7
Tied Matches: 1
India’s Probable Playing XI for the Final
India is expected to field a strong playing XI for this crucial encounter:
1. Rohit Sharma (C)
2. Shubman Gill (VC)
3. Virat Kohli
4. Shreyas Iyer
5. KL Rahul (WK)
6. Hardik Pandya
7. Axar Patel
8. Ravindra Jadeja
9. Varun Chakravarthy
10. Kuldeep Yadav
11. Mohammed Shami
What to Expect in the Final?
India’s unbeaten streak and strong squad depth give them the edge, but New Zealand has a history of performing well in ICC finals. The Dubai pitch has favored spinners in the tournament, which could be a crucial factor for both teams.
With both teams eager to lift the ICC Champions Trophy, fans can expect a thrilling contest on March 9! Stay tuned for live updates and match analysis.