The stage is set for an electrifying finale as India takes on New Zealand in the Champions Trophy final on Sunday, March 9, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Having convincingly defeated South Africa in the semi-finals, New Zealand will look to put up a strong fight, but the odds seem to be in India’s favor. Let’s delve into the reasons why Rohit Sharma and his team are poised to clinch the title.
The journey to the finals began with eight teams, and India and New Zealand found themselves in the same group in 2025. The two teams clashed on March 2, with India emerging victorious. Although both teams had already secured their spots in the semi-finals, their previous encounter sets the tone for the upcoming match. Putting that aside, there are three significant reasons why Team India appears to be the stronger contender for the championship title on March 9.
One crucial aspect that works in India’s favor is their impressive record against New Zealand in One-Day Internationals (ODIs). Out of 119 matches, India has won 61, while New Zealand has secured 50 victories. In their last 20 encounters, India has dominated, winning 12 matches, with New Zealand taking six and two ending without a result. This historical advantage could play a significant role in boosting India’s confidence.
India’s bowling attack has been a key factor in their success so far, and their strategy of fielding four spinners against New Zealand could prove to be a game-changer. The Dubai pitch, known for its slow nature, tends to favor spinners, and India’s arsenal of skilled spinners could pose a significant threat to New Zealand’s batting lineup. In contrast, New Zealand’s reliance on part-time spinners like Rachin Ravindra and Glenn Phillips might not be enough to counter India’s batting might.
Furthermore, New Zealand’s recent performances have been influenced by the pitches they’ve played on. Having won two group stage matches in Pakistan, they then traveled to Dubai, where India handed them a defeat. The semi-finals, also played in Pakistan, saw New Zealand emerge victorious, but the conditions in Dubai are expected to be more challenging. The Pakistani pitches are generally more conducive to aggressive batting, whereas the slow and dry Dubai pitch demands a more cautious approach. Even New Zealand’s star batsmen, like Williamson and Rachin Ravindra, who scored centuries in Pakistan, may find it difficult to replicate their performance in Dubai.
In their semi-final match, Williamson scored 84 runs, but only managed five boundaries, indicating that he has begun to understand the nuances of the Dubai pitch. However, the likes of Daryl Mitchell and Glenn Phillips, known for their explosive batting, might struggle to replicate their usual form on the slower Dubai pitch. In contrast, India’s batting lineup appears more adept at handling such conditions, making them the more formidable opponent in the final.
As the two teams prepare to face off, it’s clear that India has the upper hand, thanks to their impressive record, strategic bowling attack, and adaptability to the Dubai pitch. Will New Zealand be able to upset the odds and claim the championship title, or will India’s strength and experience propel them to victory? The stage is set for an enthralling encounter, and fans around the world will be eagerly watching to see which team emerges triumphant.