India vs New Zealand happening for only the 3rd time in Champions Trophy history; what to expect?

Cricket’s fiercest under-the-radar rivalry takes centre stage as India and New Zealand lock horns in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final in Dubai on March 9. This marks only their third meeting in the tournament’s history, with both teams splitting their previous encounters (1-1). 

India eyes a record third title while New Zealand aims to reclaim the trophy they first won in 2000.

Historical Context: A Battle of Nerves

In One Day Internationals (ODIs), India holds a slight edge over New Zealand, leading with 61 wins to New Zealand's 50 in their 119 matches. However, in the ICC tournament finals, New Zealand has often been a formidable opponent.

Notably, they defeated India in the 2000 ICC Champions Trophy final and the 2021 World Test Championship final. India's sole victory against New Zealand in an ICC knockout match came during the 2023 ODI World Cup semifinal.

India’s lone knockout win came in the 2023 World Cup semifinal, a fresh memory they’ll lean on even as Indian captain Rohit Sharma stands at the edge of becoming the second Indian skipper to win two ICC titles.

Road to the Final

India enters the final as the tournament's only unbeaten team, showcasing dominant performances throughout. Their batting lineup has been particularly impressive, with Virat Kohli returning to form and openers like Shubman Gill providing solid starts fueled by dominant performances and a spin-heavy attack featuring Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja.

New Zealand, after a resilient journey, secured their spot in the final with a comprehensive victory over South Africa in the semifinals. Their captain, Kane Williamson, acknowledges the challenge ahead but views it as an exciting opportunity, especially after their significant semi-final win against South Africa. Their pace trio—Kyle Jamieson, Matt Henry, and William O’Rourke—poses a threat on Dubai’s seamer-friendly pitch.

Anticipated Clash

With both teams having a 1-1 record in their previous Champions Trophy encounters, this final promises to be a closely contested match. India aims to secure a record third Champions Trophy title, while New Zealand seeks to add another ICC trophy to their cabinet. Fans can expect a high-intensity game as these cricketing powerhouses vie for supremacy.