Kiwis opt to set a target as India’s formidable bowling attack looks to take control in Dubai
Dubai, March 9, 2025 – The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final is officially underway as New Zealand won the toss and elected to bat first against India at the Dubai International Stadium. With both teams in red-hot form, the decision sets the stage for a thrilling contest between New Zealand’s solid batting unit and India’s world-class bowling attack.
“Batting first in a final always carries pressure, but we back our lineup to put up a strong total,” said New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner after the toss.
Spin vs. Stability – A Battle in the Middle
New Zealand, who finished second in Group A, will rely on key batters Kane Williamson and Rachin Ravindra—both known for their expertise against spin—to anchor their innings. Meanwhile, India’s formidable spin attack, featuring Varun Chakravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, and Ravindra Jadeja, will look to exploit the conditions and tighten the screws early on.
India’s Chase Strategy
With Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Shreyas Iyer leading the batting charge, India will aim to restrict New Zealand to a manageable total before their power-packed lineup takes center stage. Given their undefeated run in the tournament, the Men in Blue will look to maintain their dominance and clinch another ICC trophy.
As the high-octane final unfolds, all eyes are on New Zealand’s ability to post a competitive total and India’s response under pressure. The stage is set for a nail-biting showdown in Dubai.