India vs New Zealand Prediction & Playing 11, Champions Trophy 2025 Final: IND vs NZ Who will Win, Team News and Injury Update, Lineups

India and New Zealand are set to face off in the highly anticipated final of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 on March 9 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

Both teams have showcased exceptional form throughout the tournament, making this clash a thrilling prospect for cricket enthusiasts worldwide. Rohit Sharma and his troops will be eyeing to rack up Champions Trophy after World Cup 2023 heartbreak, while the Kiwis aim for their first limited-overs ICC title since 2000.

IND vs NZ - Road to Final in Champions Trophy 2025

India's Road to the Final

India entered the tournament with a dominant display, remaining unbeaten in the group stages. They began their campaign with a six-wicket victory over Bangladesh, highlighted by vice-captain Shubman Gill's unbeaten century and Mohammed Shami's five-wicket haul. In their subsequent match against Pakistan, Virat Kohli's 51st ODI century propelled India to a convincing win, further solidifying their dominance. In the semi-final against Australia, Kohli's match-defining 84 runs guided India to a four-wicket victory, securing their spot in the final.

New Zealand's Journey

New Zealand has been equally impressive. Their campaign began with a victory over Pakistan, followed by a five-wicket win against Bangladesh. In the latter match, Rachin Ravindra's century and Michael Bracewell's four-wicket haul were instrumental in their success. In the semi-final, New Zealand faced South Africa and emerged victorious, showcasing their resilience and tactical acumen.

India vs New Zealand CT 2025 Team News and Key Players

India

India's batting lineup has been formidable, with Virat Kohli returning to peak form and Shubman Gill providing consistent starts. The depth in their batting allows the top order to play with freedom and confidence. On the bowling front, Mohammed Shami has been exceptional, and the spin duo of Ravindra Jadeja and Varun Chakravarthy adds variety to the attack. Chakravarthy, known for his mystery spin, took 5-42 in their group match against New Zealand, posing significant challenges for the Kiwi batters.

New Zealand

New Zealand's balanced approach, with contributions from both batsmen and bowlers, makes them a formidable opponent. Captain Kane Williamson's leadership and batting prowess have been pivotal. However, the team faces a potential setback with key pacer Matt Henry's participation in doubt due to a shoulder injury sustained in the semi-final against South Africa. Henry, the tournament's leading wicket-taker, will undergo a last-minute fitness test to determine his availability. Spinner Mitchell Santner has been instrumental in their bowling attack, and his performance could be crucial in the final.

IND vs NZ Head-to-Head Record

Historically, India and New Zealand have faced each other 118 times in ODIs. India leads with 60 wins, while New Zealand has secured 50 victories. Seven matches ended without a result, and one was tied. In ICC tournaments, the teams have had closely contested encounters, with New Zealand often emerging as a challenging opponent for India.

IND vs NZ Predicted Playing XI

India: Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wk), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Mohammed Shami, Varun Chakravarthy, Arshdeep Singh.

New Zealand: Will Young, Devon Conway, Kane Williamson (c), Rachin Ravindra, Tom Latham (wk), Glenn Phillips, Mark Chapman, Mitchell Santner, Michael Bracewell, Kyle Jamieson, Jacob Duffy.

IND vs NZ Match Prediction: Who Will Win the Champions Trophy 2025 Final?

Both teams have displayed formidable performances, making this a closely contested match. India's batting lineup, bolstered by Kohli's resurgence and Gill's consistency, poses a significant challenge. Conversely, New Zealand's balanced approach, with contributions from both batsmen and bowlers, makes them a tough opponent.

Given India's recent dominance and their unbeaten run in the tournament, they might have a psychological edge. However, New Zealand's current form and their history of rising to the occasion in major tournaments cannot be underestimated.