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India vs New Zealand: A Perfect Peak at the Right Moment
Team India has hit top gear just when it matters the most. As they prepare to face New Zealand in the grand finale of the Champions Trophy 2025 on Sunday, they are riding the wave of seven consecutive ODI wins. A victory in the final would not only extend their dream run but also etch their name in history with a record third Champions Trophy title.
With an impeccable blend of experience and young talent, Rohit Sharma and his men have demonstrated sheer dominance in this tournament, outplaying top cricketing nations. As India vs New Zealand heats up, let’s take a closer look at India’s road to the final and what makes them strong contenders for the coveted trophy.
India’s Road to the Final: Dominance Personified
1. Tournament Opener – Victory Over Bangladesh
India began their Champions Trophy 2025 campaign in Dubai with a thrilling six-wicket win against Bangladesh. Pacer Mohammed Shami stole the show with his fiery 5/53, supported well by Harshit Rana (3 wickets) and Axar Patel (2 wickets). Their disciplined bowling attack restricted Bangladesh to 228 runs.
A composed century from *Shubman Gill (101)**, along with solid contributions from Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul, ensured India comfortably chased down the target with 21 balls to spare.
2. The High-Voltage Clash – India vs. Pakistan
In one of the most anticipated matches of the tournament, India once again asserted their dominance over Pakistan. Bowling first, Kuldeep Yadav’s magical spell (3 wickets) and tight bowling from the pace attack restricted Pakistan to 241 runs in 49.4 overs.
Also Read: Pakistan vs New Zealand: ICC Champions Trophy 2025
India’s chase saw crucial knocks from Shubman Gill (46) and Shreyas Iyer (56), but it was Virat Kohli’s masterclass unbeaten 100 that sealed the game, ensuring a comfortable six-wicket win.
3. Group A Topper Decider – Victory Against New Zealand
India and New Zealand had already secured their semi-final spots when they clashed in the final Group A match. However, the winner would top the group and head into the knockout stage with an unbeaten record.
Batting first, Shreyas Iyer (79) and Hardik Pandya (45) led India to a fighting total of 249/9. New Zealand’s chase was cut short by a stellar performance from Varun Chakravarthy, who spun a web around the Kiwi batsmen with a five-wicket haul, bundling them out for 205 runs.
4. Semi-Final Showdown – Beating the Mighty Australians
India had another formidable challenge in the semi-finals, taking on Australia. Once again, the bowling attack delivered under pressure. The Aussie batters struggled as India’s bowlers kept picking wickets at crucial junctures. Mohammed Shami (3 wickets), Axar Patel, and Ravindra Jadeja (2 wickets each) played key roles in restricting Australia to 264 all out in 50 overs.
When it came to the chase, Virat Kohli (84 off 98 balls) played a mature knock, guiding India closer to victory. Finishing touches from Axar Patel, KL Rahul, and Hardik Pandya ensured a comfortable chase, taking India into the Champions Trophy 2025 Final with 11 balls to spare.
Three Key Challenges for India in the Final
1. Mitchell Santner’s Spin Threat
New Zealand’s left-arm spinner Mitchell Santner has been a major force in the middle overs. His ability to stifle runs and break partnerships was evident in the semi-final against South Africa, where he took 3/43. With an economy rate of 4.85, Santner will be crucial in Dubai’s spin-friendly conditions. India’s middle order, particularly Virat Kohli and KL Rahul, must find a way to neutralize him.
2. Rachin Ravindra’s Explosive Batting
Rachin Ravindra has been one of New Zealand’s standout performers, amassing 226 runs in three matches at an average of 75.33. His two centuries have played a key role in the Kiwi batting lineup. While he fell cheaply in the group-stage match against India, he remains a serious threat in the final.
3. The Return of Devon Conway
Devon Conway, who was left out of New Zealand’s last two matches, might make a return to the XI for the final. His aggressive stroke play at the top could pose a challenge for India’s bowlers. If Conway finds his rhythm, he could disrupt India’s bowling plans in the powerplay.
Final Battle: Can India Conquer New Zealand Again?
Having already defeated New Zealand in the group stage, India holds a psychological edge going into the final. However, the Kiwis are known for their resilience and ability to perform in big matches. The Indian team will need to bring their A-game to lift the prestigious Champions Trophy for the third time.
With the batting lineup in prime form, the bowling attack firing on all cylinders, and Virat Kohli leading from the front, Team India looks well-poised to script history. Will they seize the moment and achieve their “Seventh Heaven” by making it eight wins in a row?
All eyes will be on Dubai this Sunday as cricket fans eagerly await what promises to be a thrilling showdown between two of the best ODI teams in the world.
Stay tuned for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 finale – One win away from glory!
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