Champions Trophy 2025 Final: India vs. New Zealand Set for Epic Clash in Dubai
The stage is set for the grand finale of the Champions Trophy 2025, as India and New Zealand prepare to lock horns at the Dubai International Stadium. This will be the second time these two cricketing giants face off in the tournament’s final. Their previous encounter in 2000 saw New Zealand dominate India to claim the coveted ICC trophy.
This time, however, both teams enter the final in emphatic form, having outperformed their rivals throughout the tournament. With their exceptional performances, the clash promises to be a high-octane battle between two of the world’s elite ODI teams.
India’s Dominant Run in Champions Trophy 2025
India has been unstoppable in the tournament, maintaining a perfect record under the leadership of Rohit Sharma. The team began their campaign with commanding victories over Bangladesh, Pakistan, and New Zealand in the group stage. In the semi-final, they faced Australia, the reigning world champions, and delivered a masterclass in chasing. A majestic knock from Virat Kohli steered India to a thrilling 4-wicket win, securing their place in the final.
New Zealand’s Ambitious March to the Final
The Black Caps have been equally impressive, with their only loss in the tournament coming against India. Their semi-final performance against South Africa was particularly noteworthy, as they posted a mammoth total of 362/6 in 50 overs. New Zealand’s batters have been in sublime form, while their bowlers have consistently restricted opponents. With such a balanced and formidable squad, New Zealand are a force to be reckoned with in the final.
Top 5 Highest Team Totals in Champions Trophy Finals
Here’s a look at the highest team totals in the history of Champions Trophy finals:
(5) Australia (206/2 in 45.2 overs)
In the 2009 final, Australia chased down New Zealand’s target of 201 with ease, winning by 6 wickets. Shane Watson starred with an unbeaten 105, guiding his team to victory.
(4) West Indies (218/8 in 48.5 overs)
The 2004 final saw the West Indies chase down 218 against England in a thrilling finish. Shivnarine Chanderpaul and the lower order held their nerve to secure a 2-wicket win.
(3) South Africa (248/6 in 47 overs)
South Africa chased down 246 against the West Indies in the 1998 final, thanks to a composed 61 from Hansie Cronje and an all-round performance by Jacques Kallis.
(2) New Zealand (265/6 in 49.4 overs)
In the 2000 final, New Zealand chased down India’s 264, with Chris Cairns scoring a match-winning unbeaten 102 to seal the trophy.
(1) Pakistan (338/4 in 50 overs)
Pakistan’s 2017 final performance was a masterclass, as they posted 338 against India. Fakhar Zaman led the charge with a brilliant 114, setting up a historic victory.
What to Expect in the 2025 Final
With both India and New Zealand in peak form, the final promises to be a thrilling contest. India’s batting firepower, led by Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, will be up against New Zealand’s disciplined bowling attack. Meanwhile, New Zealand’s in-form batters will look to challenge India’s bowlers.
As the cricketing world eagerly awaits this epic clash, one thing is certain: the Champions Trophy 2025 final will be a spectacle to remember.
Also Read:
- India or New Zealand? Michael Clarke Predicts the Winner of Champions Trophy 2025 Final
- Top 5 Highest Individual Scores in the History of Champions Trophy Finals
