New Delhi: The group stage of the Champions Trophy 2025 is set to conclude today, with India facing New Zealand in the final Group B match at the Dubai Cricket Stadium. Both teams have already secured a spot in the semi-finals, but this match will determine which team tops the group. If India finishes second, they will face South Africa in the semi-finals. However, if they top the table, they will take on Australia in the knockout stage.
India’s Selection Dilemma
Indian captain Rohit Sharma has been dealing with fitness concerns in recent days. Meanwhile, Arshdeep Singh has not been included in the playing XI so far. Given that today’s match has relatively lower stakes, India might consider resting either Mohammed Shami or Harshit Rana to give Arshdeep Singh an opportunity. Hardik Pandya is expected to continue as the third fast-bowling option.
Dubai Pitch Report
The Dubai pitch has proven to be favorable for both batting and spin bowling throughout the tournament. India has already won two matches at this venue while chasing. As the pitch ages, batting becomes easier, so the team winning the toss might opt to bowl first.
India vs New Zealand: Head-to-Head Record
In the history of ODI cricket, India and New Zealand have faced each other 118 times. Out of these encounters, India has won 60 matches, while New Zealand has emerged victorious in 50 games. One match ended in a tie, and seven matches had no result. India has been dominant in recent matchups, winning all of the last five ODIs against New Zealand.
India vs New Zealand: Probable Playing XI
For India, the probable playing XI includes Rohit Sharma (captain), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, and Varun Chakravarthy.
On the other hand, New Zealand’s likely playing XI consists of Will Young, Devon Conway, Kane Williamson, Rachin Ravindra, Tom Latham, Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner (captain), Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, and William O’Rourke.