IND vs NZ Predicted Playing 11 Today Match, Final Champions Trophy 2025: The stage is set for an electrifying ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final as India and New Zealand gear up for the ultimate clash at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on March 9. While Rohit Sharma and his men are eyeing another ICC title, New Zealand are determined to end their long wait for an ODI championship.
India will enter the final with confidence, having defeated New Zealand in the group stage at the same venue. However, history favors the Black Caps, who have consistently troubled India in ICC knockout games.
India’s Winning Formula
India is expected to stick to their successful playing combination, relying on a four-pronged spin attack. Varun Chakaravarthy, who dismantled New Zealand with a five-wicket haul in the group stage, will be key to their plans. The batting unit, led by Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill, and Rohit Sharma, has been in formidable form, and head coach Gautam Gambhir is unlikely to make changes to the winning combination.
New Zealand’s Injury Concern
Meanwhile, New Zealand face a major setback as Matt Henry, the tournament’s leading wicket-taker, suffered a shoulder injury during the semi-final against South Africa. Skipper Mitchell Santner stated that Henry’s participation will be decided after a final fitness test.
“Matt’s going to have a bowl just to see how he is. I guess we’ll make a call after that,” Santner told reporters.
Despite Henry’s uncertainty, New Zealand’s spin attack, featuring Santner, Michael Bracewell, Rachin Ravindra, and Glenn Phillips, will be a crucial weapon against the Indian batting lineup on Dubai’s slow surface.
Pitch and Playing Conditions
The final is expected to be played on the same pitch where India defeated Pakistan in the group stage, meaning spinners could dictate terms. Controlling the middle overs will be key for both sides.
India vs New Zealand Probable XIs
India: Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wk), Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Varun Chakaravarthy.
New Zealand: Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, Kane Williamson, Tom Latham (wk), Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner (c), Kyle Jamieson, William O’Rourke, Matt Henry/Nathan Smith.