The much awaited 2025 ICC Champions Trophy final between India and New Zealand in Dubai on Sunday looks to be an exciting event on Sunday. Although both sides have demonstrated remarkable performance all through the competition, five crucial elements could decide the result of this high-stakes collision.
1. The Spin Dominance of India
Their strongest suit in the event has come from India’s spin attack. India has regularly disturbed opposing hitters with Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakravarthy, Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja, and Washington Sundar in their ranks. The five-wicket haul Chakravarthy recorded against New Zealand in the group stage changed everything. Should the Dubai pitch present turn, India’s spinners could once more be really important.
2. Farewell farewell for Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma?
After retiring from T20Is following the 2024 T20 World Cup, Indian icons Virat Kohli (36) and Rohit Sharma (37) could make their farewell ODI appearance here. With a century against Pakistan and a match-winning 84 against Australia in the quarterfinal, Kohli has been in great form. Though not at his best, Rohit has given fast beginnings. In a high-pressure final, their knowledge and leadership will be very vital.
3.The Batting Firepower of New Zealand
Leading by Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson, New Zealand’s batting team has been in outstanding form. In the semifinal against South Africa, Ravindra’s 108 and Williamson’s 102 shown their capacity for under pressure performance. Recovering from a head injury, Ravindra has been a revelation, accumulating 226 runs in three matches. Should these two flare once again, New Zealand may have a difficult total.
4. Middle Order Consistency of India
Featuring Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, and KL Rahul, India’s middle order has been absolutely consistent during the tournament. Iyer and Gill have steadied the innings; Rahul has given consistency. Adding depth, all-rounders Hardik Pandya and Axar Patel have made India’s batting lineup among the most balanced in the league.
5. ICC Tournament Held in New Zealand Ancestral
New Zealand has a track record of success in ICC events, usually punching above their weight. They reached several finals and won the Champions Trophy in 2000; they have remained steady since. India is dominant, but New Zealand is a formidable opponent because of their capacity to underline pressure in important events.
The Bigger Viewpoint
Unmatched in the tournament, India is pursuing their third Champions Trophy crown. But New Zealand’s tactical acumen and fortitude might make this a fiercely contested match. The game also has emotional weight since it might be Kohli and Rohit’s last ODI, so adding even more relevance.
Given both sides are level, the last promises to be a show for cricket lovers all around. Will New Zealand’s big-match experience stand out or will India’s spin power and batting depth take front stage? Sunday in Dubai will reveal the response.
