Dubai [UAE], March 9 : The highly anticipated ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final between India and New Zealand at Dubai promises to be an exciting sequel to their showdown in the same competition 25 years ago. The outcome of this match could shape the future of many star players on both sides, with key battles that could decide the fate of the game. As the teams prepare for the epic final, several key factors are likely to play a significant role.
1. Absence or Presence of Matt Henry
Matt Henry, New Zealand’s pace spearhead, has been the standout performer of the competition, with 10 wickets at an impressive average of 16.70. He has been a consistent thorn in India’s side, particularly during the 2019 World Cup semifinal, where his early strikes helped New Zealand bowl India out for a low total. If Henry is absent due to a shoulder injury sustained in the semifinals, New Zealand will rely on seamers like Kyle Jamieson and Will O’Rourke. However, without Henry, India’s top order may look to dominate the less experienced pacers, such as O’Rourke, who has not been a regular new-ball bowler.
2. India’s Middle Order vs Mitchell Santner and Michael Bracewell
Mitchell Santner and Michael Bracewell have been key figures for New Zealand in the 2025 Champions Trophy, with Santner taking 7 wickets at an average of 27.71 and Bracewell claiming 6 wickets at an average of 28.83. The Indian middle order, which includes Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, and KL Rahul, has been solid and effective, mixing strike rotation with boundaries. Santner has proven to be a threat to India, dismissing both Virat and KL Rahul multiple times in the past. How Santner and Bracewell manage to contain this middle order could be a deciding factor in the match.
3. Rachin Ravindra vs India
Rachin Ravindra has been in excellent form throughout the competition, having scored 226 runs with two centuries. His only failure came against India in Dubai, where he was dismissed cheaply by Hardik Pandya. However, Ravindra is a formidable player of spin, boasting impressive numbers in the 2023 World Cup and a great record against spin. India will need to keep a close watch on him, as Ravindra can easily dominate spinners like Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja.
4. Indian Spinners vs Kiwi Batters
India’s spinners have been exceptional in the tournament, with Varun Chakravarthy, who impressed in the last encounter between the two teams in Dubai, dismantling the New Zealand middle order with figures of 5/42. India’s spin quartet of Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, and Varun Chakravarthy presents a significant challenge for New Zealand, particularly with spinners having the upper hand in Dubai’s conditions. New Zealand will need to counter India’s spin dominance to keep the run rate in check.
5. Fitness and Fielding on a Hot Day
With temperatures expected to soar to 34°C during the final, both teams will face a significant challenge in managing their fitness and fielding under the heat. Both India and New Zealand have some of the fittest players in world cricket, but how they cope with the heat, avoid cramps, and maintain energy while rotating strike will be crucial.
As both teams prepare for a match that promises high drama, the results of these key battles will likely determine who lifts the Champions Trophy in 2025.