The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has reached its pinnacle, with India set to face New Zealand in the final. Both teams have showcased exceptional skill and determination throughout the tournament, setting the stage for a thrilling conclusion.
Match Details
Date: March 9, 2025
Time: 6:00 PM Gulf Standard Time (GST) / 7:30 PM India Standard Time (IST)
Venue: Dubai International Stadium, Dubai, UAE
Road to the Final
India's Journey:
India secured their spot in the final with a hard-fought victory over Australia in the semi-finals. Australia, led by stand-in captain Steve Smith, posted a total of 264 runs. India's chase was anchored by Virat Kohli, who scored a pivotal 84 runs. Despite a few early setbacks, India maintained composure, with KL Rahul sealing the win with an unbeaten 42, finishing the game with a six.
New Zealand's Journey:
New Zealand earned their place in the final by defeating South Africa by 50 runs. Batting first, New Zealand set a formidable target of 362 runs, thanks to centuries from Rachin Ravindra (108) and Kane Williamson (102). South Africa's response was thwarted by disciplined bowling, with Mitchell Santner leading with figures of 3-43.
Key Players to Watch
India:
Virat Kohli: A linchpin in India's batting lineup, Kohli's experience and consistency make him a crucial player in high-stakes matches.
Rohit Sharma: The captain's strategic acumen and explosive batting at the top order can set the tone for India's innings.
Mohammed Shami: Leading the pace attack, Shami's ability to take early wickets can put pressure on the opposition.
New Zealand:
Kane Williamson: The captain's recent century underscores his form and leadership qualities, vital for New Zealand's batting stability.
Rachin Ravindra: Emerging as a key all-rounder, Ravindra's contributions with both bat and ball add depth to the team.
Mitchell Santner: As captain and lead spinner, Santner's performance can be pivotal in controlling the game's tempo.
Statistical Insights
Head-to-Head in ICC Tournaments: India and New Zealand have faced each other multiple times in ICC events, with New Zealand often emerging victorious in knockout stages, including the 2019 World Cup semi-final.
Batting Averages: Virat Kohli averages 59.33 against New Zealand in ODIs, while Kane Williamson averages 47.85 against India, highlighting their importance in the final.
Squads
India:
Player | Role |
Rohit Sharma (c) | Batsman |
Shubman Gill | Batsman |
Virat Kohli | Batsman |
Shreyas Iyer | Batsman |
KL Rahul | Wicketkeeper |
Rishabh Pant | Wicketkeeper |
Hardik Pandya | All-rounder |
Axar Patel | All-rounder |
Washington Sundar | All-rounder |
Kuldeep Yadav | Bowler |
Harshit Rana | Bowler |
Mohammed Shami | Bowler |
Arshdeep Singh | Bowler |
Ravindra Jadeja | All-rounder |
Varun Chakaravarthy | Bowler |
New Zealand:
Player | Role |
Mitchell Santner (c) | All-rounder |
Michael Bracewell | All-rounder |
Mark Chapman | Batsman |
Devon Conway | Wicketkeeper |
Lockie Ferguson | Bowler |
Matt Henry | Bowler |
Tom Latham | Wicketkeeper |
Daryl Mitchell | All-rounder |
Will O’Rourke | Bowler |
Glenn Phillips | Batsman |
Rachin Ravindra | All-rounder |
Ben Sears | Bowler |
Nathan Smith | Bowler |
Kane Williamson | Batsman |
Will Young | Batsman |
Venue Spotlight: Dubai International Stadium
The Dubai International Stadium is known for its sporting pitches that offer assistance to both batsmen and bowlers. Evening matches often see dew playing a role, making bowling second a challenge. Teams winning the toss might prefer to bat first to avoid the dew factor.
FAQs
When and where is the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final?
The final is scheduled for March 9, 2025, at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai, UAE.
Which teams are competing in the final?
India and New Zealand have reached the final.
How did India and New Zealand reach the final?
India defeated Australia in the semi-finals, while New Zealand overcame South Africa to secure their spots in the final.
Who are the key players to watch in the final?
For India: Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Mohammed Shami. For New Zealand: Kane Williamson, Rachin Ravindra, and Mitchell Santner.
Conclusion
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final promises an exhilarating contest between two cricketing powerhouses. With both teams in stellar form, fans worldwide can anticipate a match filled with high-quality cricket and memorable moments.
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