The final group stage match of the Champions Trophy 2025 will be played on March 2nd between India and New Zealand at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Both teams have already secured their semi-final spots, but this match remains highly significant.
Sports News: The final group stage match of the Champions Trophy 2025 will be played on March 2nd between India and New Zealand at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Both teams have already qualified for the semi-finals, but the importance of this match cannot be understated. It will determine the top team in Group A. Both India and New Zealand will aim to win this match and maintain their momentum.
India-New Zealand Clash in an ICC Tournament
India and New Zealand have always had thrilling encounters in ICC events. In the history of One Day International World Cups, they have clashed 10 times, with each team winning 5 matches. In the 2023 ODI World Cup, the two teams faced each other twice—once in the group stage and again in the semi-final, with India winning both matches. In Champions Trophy history, India and New Zealand have met only once, in the 2000 final, where New Zealand defeated India to claim the trophy.
Dubai Pitch Conditions and Weather Forecast
The Dubai pitch is considered slow and conducive to spinners. In matches played on this ground so far, no team has scored 250+ runs. India easily defeated Bangladesh (229 runs) and Pakistan (242 runs) in their two matches at this venue. New Zealand might face some challenges on this slow pitch, as their previous matches have been on faster wickets in Pakistan. However, they possess spinners like Mitchell Santner, Michael Bracewell, and Glenn Phillips who can exploit the conditions.
What will be the Teams' Strategies?
India has already qualified for the semi-finals, but will the team rest its key players in this match? Vice-captain KL Rahul has clarified that the Indian team is not considering any changes. The team management wants to maintain its current momentum to build confidence for the semi-finals.
This match is also crucial for New Zealand. A win would secure them top spot in Group A, setting up a semi-final clash against the second-ranked team from Group B. Therefore, the Kane Williamson-led team will leave no stone unturned.
IND vs NZ Probable Playing XI
India: Rohit Sharma/Rishabh Pant, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav/Varun Chakravarthy, Mohammed Shami/Arshdeep Singh, Harshit Rana, and Ravindra Jadeja.
New Zealand: Mitchell Santner (Captain), Michael Bracewell, Devon Conway, Matt Henry, Tom Latham, Will O'Rourke, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Kane Williamson, Will Young, and Kyle Jamieson.
