Karachi, March 8, 2025 – The countdown is over, and the stage is set for one of the most anticipated matches in cricket history. The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final is here, with India and New Zealand ready to battle for glory.
Two of the most consistent teams in ICC tournaments are set to clash in a high-stakes encounter that promises excitement, intensity, and world-class cricket.
Both teams have displayed sheer dominance throughout the tournament. India, fueled by a billion hopes, enters the final on the back of a commanding victory over Australia in the semifinals. Meanwhile, New Zealand, the dark horses of ICC events, showcased their mettle by outclassing South Africa. Now, with everything on the line, these two formidable sides will face off for the prestigious ICC Champions Trophy.
India’s Road to the Final
The Men in Blue have been a force to reckon with in the ICC Champions Trophy. Skipper Rohit Sharma has led from the front, setting the stage with explosive starts, while his opening partner Shubman Gill has provided steady support. Virat Kohli, the ultimate chase master, is on the brink of history, needing just a few runs to become the highest run-scorer in Champions Trophy history. India’s middle order, featuring Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya, and Axar Patel, has stepped up in crucial moments, ensuring stability and firepower.
India’s bowling attack has been equally lethal. Mohammed Shami has spearheaded the pace attack with precision, while Varun Chakravarthy’s mystery spin has baffled opposition batters. Ravindra Jadeja, a proven match-winner, has emerged as India’s leading wicket-taker in the ICC Champions Trophy. With a well-balanced squad, India is primed for another ICC triumph.
New Zealand’s Quest for Glory
New Zealand has time and again proved that they are a force to be reckoned with in ICC events. Rachin Ravindra has been a revelation, consistently delivering with the bat, while Kane Williamson remains the backbone of the Kiwis’ batting lineup. Their captain, Mitchell Santner, has received praise for his leadership and all-round contributions, playing a crucial role with both bat and ball.
The Blackcaps’ bowling attack has been formidable, with Matt Henry leading the wicket charts. Young pacer Will O’Rourke has provided crucial support, while Santner’s spin has added a new dimension to their attack. With two ICC trophies already in their cabinet – the 2000 ICC Champions Trophy and the 2021 ICC World Test Championship – New Zealand will be eager to add a third, once again at India’s expense.
A Final for the Ages
The match will take place on the same Dubai surface that hosted the India-Pakistan encounter earlier in the tournament. The pitch is expected to be slow, making stroke play difficult. Instead of a high-scoring showdown, fans can expect a tactical battle, where singles, doubles, and strike rotation will be key. India may rely on their spinners, including Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, and Jadeja, while New Zealand could counter with their three-pronged spin attack led by Santner.
India holds a slight edge, having played all their matches in Dubai, while New Zealand has faced travel fatigue. The last time these two teams met in the league stage, India emerged victorious in a low-scoring affair. However, history favors the Blackcaps, who have twice defeated India in ICC finals. Can India break the curse and reclaim the Champions Trophy? Or will New Zealand once again deny them a title?
Cricket fans, brace yourselves for an epic showdown as India and New Zealand battle for supremacy in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final. The stakes couldn’t be higher, and the world is watching. Sit back, relax, and get ready for a thrilling Sunday filled with unforgettable cricketing moments.
