Dubai [UAE], March 9: As India prepares to face New Zealand in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final on March 9, all eyes will be on their formidable middle-order, which could play a crucial role in securing their second consecutive white-ball title and seventh overall. The Indian middle order, arguably the best since the days of Yuvraj Singh, MS Dhoni, and Suresh Raina, has demonstrated both calm and resilience under pressure in ICC ODI knockout matches.
The key players in this middle order are Shreyas Iyer at number four, Axar Patel at five, KL Rahul at six, and Hardik Pandya at seven. Together, they provide a well-rounded lineup that adapts to different match situations, conditions, and challenges.
Shreyas Iyer: India’s Go-To Man in Knockouts
Shreyas Iyer has been a standout performer in ICC ODI knockout matches. With 154 runs at an average of 51.33 and a strike rate of over 114, Iyer’s most memorable knock came in the 2023 World Cup semifinals against New Zealand, where he scored a blistering 67-ball century — the fastest-ever by a batter in ICC knockout stages. While Iyer faltered in his only previous ICC ODI final, against Australia in the 2023 World Cup, he has a chance to redeem himself, especially against New Zealand, against whom he averages over 70. His 45 runs in the CT semifinals against Australia also proved vital in steadying India’s innings after an early collapse.
Axar Patel: The Proactive Finisher
Axar Patel may not have played many knockout games, but he made his presence felt in the semifinals against Australia in the 2025 Champions Trophy. Scoring a quick 27 runs off 30 balls in a tough chase, Axar’s contributions with the bat were crucial. He also dismissed Glenn Maxwell, preventing Australia from setting a mammoth total. Axar’s all-round skills make him a key asset in India’s middle order.
KL Rahul: The Man Under Pressure
KL Rahul’s performances in ICC ODI knockouts have been a mixed bag, with some high points and frustrating lows. He has scored 148 runs in four knockout matches at an average of 74.00, but his knock in the 2023 World Cup final against Australia, where he managed only 66 off 107 balls with just one boundary, added pressure on the Indian team. However, Rahul’s counter-attacking 42* off 34 balls in the semifinals against Australia showed signs of his ability to rise to the occasion. A big knock from him in the final could silence his critics and prove his worth.
Hardik Pandya: India’s Clutch Player
Hardik Pandya has a reputation for stepping up in the most critical situations. Whether it was his counter-attacking 76 against Pakistan in the 2017 Champions Trophy final or his quick cameo of 28 in the semifinal against Australia in 2025, Hardik thrives under pressure. With a batting average of over 45 in knockout matches and a strike rate above 105, he is a game-changer for India. His ability to perform in high-stakes situations will be key to India’s success in the final.
With these four players in the middle order, India has the firepower to tackle any situation that arises. The question now is whether they can deliver collectively and create a moment of history that will be remembered for years to come.