The stage is set, the stakes are high, and the cricketing world is abuzz with one burning question: Can India maintain its blistering form and lift the ICC Champions Trophy? With New Zealand storming into the final after toppling South Africa, all eyes are now on the epic clash between the Black Caps and the Men in Blue on Sunday, March 9.
The ICC Champions Trophy, first introduced in 1998 as the ICC Knockout Tournament, was initially conceived to generate funds for cricket in non-Test-playing nations. Due to its success, it soon became one of the premier white-ball tournaments, evolving into an elite competition for the top eight ODI teams. However, after its 2017 edition, the tournament was shelved to streamline ICC events—only to make a thrilling comeback in 2025.
Since its inception, the tournament has seen multiple winners. South Africa clinched the inaugural title in 1998, followed by New Zealand in 2000. India shared the title with Sri Lanka in 2002, while West Indies, Australia, Pakistan, and India again in 2013 have all had their moments of glory. This means that every major cricketing nation except Bangladesh and Afghanistan has held the coveted trophy at least once.
For the first time in 25 years, India and New Zealand will battle it out in a white-ball tournament final. India remains the only unbeaten team in the tournament, having convincingly defeated New Zealand in the group stage. However, the Kiwis bounced back strongly in the semifinals, posting a staggering 363-run target against South Africa—an ominous sign that they mean business.
India has historically dominated knockout encounters against New Zealand in this tournament, but the Black Caps have a knack for turning the tables in crucial ICC events. While India edged them out in the group stages, Mitchell Santner and his men have shown they can never be underestimated.
Rohit Sharma, now a World Cup-winning captain after leading India to victory in the 2024 T20 World Cup in Barbados, has a golden chance to etch his name further into history. If he lifts the Champions Trophy, he will become only the second Indian captain after MS Dhoni to achieve this feat.
India has been tactically astute in this tournament, adapting brilliantly to the conditions in Dubai. They made a crucial change by bringing in spinner Varun Chakaravarthy once the pitches started slowing down. Their familiarity with Dubai’s conditions gives them a significant advantage over New Zealand, who have played only one match at this venue so far. Additionally, India’s batting lineup is regaining form at the right time. World No.1 ODI players Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have rediscovered their touch, while Shreyas Iyer, Shubmam Gill, KL Rahul, and Ravindra Jadeja have all contributed consistently, both in setting up and chasing down targets.
New Zealand’s strength lies in their well-rounded squad, with a mix of seasoned players and rising stars. Their ability to post a mammoth 363-run target against South Africa showcased their batting prowess. Meanwhile, India’s firepower lies in their deep batting lineup and world-class spinners, which could prove decisive on the sluggish Dubai track.
Another intriguing subplot is India’s team manager, Devraj, the secretary of the Hyderabad Cricket Association. If India wins, he will join the ranks of PR Mansingh, who was India’s manager during their historic 1983 World Cup triumph.
With their unbeaten streak, home-like familiarity with conditions, and the psychological edge of having already defeated New Zealand, India appears to have the upper hand. However, New Zealand has shown resilience time and again in ICC tournaments. The stage is set for a high-octane final, where one team will script history. Will it be Rohit Sharma’s India adding another ICC trophy to their cabinet, or will Kane Williamson’s New Zealand pull off a stunning heist?
Brace yourselves for a thrilling battle—it’s going to be a night of high drama, nerve-wracking moments, and cricketing excellence!
