India and New Zealand Embark on a Quest for Elusive ODI Triumph | Cricbuzz.com

**ICC CHAMPIONS TROPHY 2025: India and New Zealand Aim for ODI Supremacy**

*By Vijay Tagore*

As India and New Zealand gear up for another intense ICC Knockout clash, tension mounts ahead of their meeting on the grand stage. The final, set against the backdrop of the Dubai skyline at the ICC Academy, will showcase two teams eager to end their pursuit of glory in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. Ahead of this thrilling encounter, Rohit Sharma and Gautam Gambhir were seen engaged in an earnest conversation during an illuminating net session, unlikely discussing vacation plans post-tournament. Instead, their discussion likely revolved around key players like Kane Williamson, Mitchell Santner, Matt Henry, and particularly, the young dynamo, Rachin Ravindra.

Ravindra, at just 25 years of age, has emerged remarkably in the international cricket arena, having scored five centuries in ICC events over a mere 18-month span. The onus is on the Indian bowlers to contain him early on, much as they previously succeeded. His last innings against South Africa, where he secured the Player of the Match accolade, stands testament to his form.

Matt Henry, whose fiery spell dismantled India’s top order in the gloomy 2019 Manchester encounter, remains another significant figure. India’s Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill will be vigilant against an early threat, especially given Henry’s recent injury concerns, which could either provide a breather or a deceptive calm.

Kane Williamson continues to evolve gracefully, free from the pressures of leadership and keenly poised to challenge the Indian attack. His recent century in the semifinal accentuates his formidable presence. Similarly, Mitchell Santner, with his understated captaincy, and astute spin prowess, poses a substantial threat, particularly in his face-off with Virat Kohli, who has occasionally shown vulnerability to quality spin.

New Zealand’s prowess in the field further sharpens their edge. The anticipation, agility, and precise execution by the Kiwi fielders set the stage for a challenging contest with the Indian batsmen.

As for the playing conditions, with no dew expected at night, the toss may have limited influence, although New Zealand might consider batting first to negate Varun Chakravarthy’s spin threat. India’s strategy remains flexible, confident in their ability to either set or chase a target.

Historically, India enters as the superior side, often deemed stronger on paper, yet past ICC tournaments reveal a competitive edge that New Zealand consistently brings to their encounters.

**Match Details:**
– **Date and Time:** March 9, 13:00 Local, 14:30 IST
– **Venue:** Dubai International Cricket Stadium
– **Conditions:** Expect a tightly contested match where the toss might not be pivotal. Likely to be a closely fought, moderate-scoring affair.

**Team News:**
– **India:** Buoyed by Hardik Pandya’s successful spells with the new ball, India might retain their mix of two pacers and four spinners, although changes could occur with Kuldeep Yadav making way for a pacer like Harshit Rana or Arshdeep Singh, given recent performances.
– **Probable XI:** Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wk), Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Varun Chakravarthy.

– **New Zealand:** Victory in the semifinal may prompt an unchanged lineup, with Devon Conway potentially sidelined again. However, Matt Henry’s fitness could alter selections, with Nathan Smith or Jacob Duffy on standby.
– **Probable XI:** Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, Kane Williamson, Tom Latham (wk), Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner (c), Kyle Jamieson, William O’Rourke, Matt Henry/Nathan Smith.

**Key Insights:**
– New Zealand leads 3-1 in ICC knockout matches against India.
– Rohit Sharma stands as the first captain to reach finals in all four Men’s ICC tournaments.
– New Zealand’s spinners have been prolific in recent matches but less so against India.
– Milestones await as Virat Kohli edges closer to becoming the second-highest run-scorer in ODI history.

**Opinions & Perspectives:**
– *India Coach Sitanshu Kotak:* On perceived home advantage, emphasizes the objective amidst allegations of favoritism.
– *New Zealand Coach Gary Stead:* Reflects the team’s focus, underscoring its resilience and preparedness.

This highly anticipated finale is set to offer a riveting spectacle between two formidable cricketing nations vying for ODI triumph.

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