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The stage is set for a blockbuster clash between New Zealand and India in the final Group A match of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. With both teams having won their first two games convincingly, this encounter will determine who finishes at the top of the group and secures a favorable semi-final matchup. While New Zealand’s clinical performances have been impressive, India’s depth in both batting and bowling gives them a slight edge. This high-stakes game promises to be a thrilling contest as both sides aim to maintain their unbeaten streaks and assert dominance.
Match Details
| Match | New Zealand vs India |
|---|---|
| Tournament | ICC Champions Trophy 2025 |
| Date & Time | [Insert Date and Time] |
| Venue | Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai |
| Format | ODI |
Team Previews
New Zealand Preview
New Zealand has been in scintillating form, cruising through their first two matches with ease. Rachin Ravindra’s Player of the Match performance against Bangladesh, where he scored a magnificent 112 off 105 balls, has added another dimension to their already formidable batting lineup. The return of Daryl Mitchell from illness provides a selection headache, with Will Young or Devon Conway likely to make way. Kane Williamson’s leadership and experience remain pivotal, while Tom Latham and Glenn Phillips add stability to the middle order.
With the ball, Matt Henry and Michael Bracewell have been consistent performers, delivering crucial breakthroughs. Will O’Rourke and Kyle Jamieson provide variety, ensuring New Zealand can adapt to any conditions. The Black Caps’ ability to seamlessly integrate players into the XI highlights their depth and flexibility.
However, this match represents their toughest challenge yet. Facing an Indian side brimming with talent, New Zealand will need all departments firing to secure victory. Their balanced approach and adaptability give them a fighting chance, but they must overcome India’s superior depth to prevail.
India Preview
India has lived up to their pre-tournament favorites tag, dismantling Pakistan in their last game with a commanding six-wicket win. Virat Kohli’s century and Shreyas Iyer’s composed half-century underscored their batting prowess, while Kuldeep Yadav’s three-wicket haul showcased their bowling depth. Hardik Pandya continues to impress with both bat and ball, adding balance to the side.
Skipper Rohit Sharma leads by example, while Shubman Gill and KL Rahul provide explosive starts at the top. Axar Patel and Ravindra Jadeja offer spin options, complementing Mohammed Shami and Harshit Rana’s pace attack. Despite Shami’s recent struggles post-injury, his experience remains invaluable.
India’s strength lies in their depth, with multiple match-winners across both departments. They have consistently outperformed opponents, and this clash against New Zealand will test their mettle. With momentum on their side, India enters this game as slight favorites, aiming to seal top spot in Group A.
Favourite Team to Win – Why?
| Reasons | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Strong Batting Lineup | India boasts world-class batters like Kohli, Rohit, and Iyer, capable of handling any situation. |
| Bowling Depth | Kuldeep Yadav, Hardik Pandya, and Mohammed Shami provide variety and control. |
| Recent Form | India’s dominant win over Pakistan highlights their readiness for this clash. |
| Experience in Pressure Situations | India’s players thrive in high-stakes games, giving them a psychological edge. |
| Balanced Squad | India’s all-rounders ensure they can adapt to any scenario, making them more versatile than NZ. |
Fantasy Team XI
| Player | Team | Role | Points Potential |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rohit Sharma | IND | Captain/Bat | Very High |
| Rachin Ravindra | NZ | Batsman | High |
| Virat Kohli | IND | Batsman | Very High |
| Kane Williamson | NZ | All-Rounder | Medium-High |
| Shreyas Iyer | IND | Finisher | High |
| Kuldeep Yadav | IND | Bowler | Very High |
| Matt Henry | NZ | Bowler | High |
| Michael Bracewell | NZ | All-Rounder | Medium |
| Mohammed Shami | IND | Bowler | Medium-High |
| Hardik Pandya | IND | All-Rounder | High |
| Will O’Rourke | NZ | Bowler | Medium |
Explanation:
This fantasy team combines India’s consistency with New Zealand’s firepower. Key picks include Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli for their batting exploits, while Kuldeep Yadav and Matt Henry offer wicket-taking potential. Hardik Pandya and Michael Bracewell provide all-round value.
Suggested Captain and Vice-Captain
- Captain: Virat Kohli (IND) – In-form batsman capable of anchoring the innings.
- Vice-Captain: Kuldeep Yadav (IND) – Leading spinner with the ability to break partnerships.
Players to Avoid in Fantasy Team
- Devon Conway (NZ): Struggled for consistency in recent games.
- KL Rahul (IND): Failed to convert starts into big scores consistently.
Team Squad and Probable Playing XI
New Zealand Squad:
Will Young, Devon Conway, Kane Williamson, Rachin Ravindra, Tom Latham (wk), Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner (c), Matt Henry, Will O’Rourke, Kyle Jamieson
India Squad:
Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, KL Rahul (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Harshit Rana, Mohammed Shami, Kuldeep Yadav
Probable Playing XIs
| New Zealand Predicted XI | India Predicted XI |
|---|---|
| Will Young | Rohit Sharma (c) |
| Devon Conway | Shubman Gill |
| Kane Williamson | Virat Kohli |
| Rachin Ravindra | Shreyas Iyer |
| Tom Latham (wk) | Hardik Pandya |
| Glenn Phillips | Axar Patel |
| Michael Bracewell | KL Rahul (wk) |
| Mitchell Santner (c) | Ravindra Jadeja |
| Matt Henry | Harshit Rana |
| Will O’Rourke | Mohammed Shami |
| Kyle Jamieson | Kuldeep Yadav |
Pitch Report
The Dubai pitch offers good pace and bounce, favoring batters early on. Spinners may find assistance in the middle overs, while pacers can exploit swing during powerplays. A total of 320+ would be competitive.
Toss Prediction
Both captains are likely to bat first , given the historical advantage of posting totals at this venue.
Winner Prediction
India holds a slight edge due to their superior depth and recent form. However, New Zealand’s resilience ensures a closely contested game.
Final Answer: India
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