On March 9 the Champions Trophy final takes place between India and New Zealand at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. This final represents a significant milestone, as it highlights Pakistan’s return to hosting an ICC tournament for the first time in nearly three decades.
India has secured their place in the final, triumphing over Australia by five wickets in the first semi-final held in Dubai—the same venue where they achieved victories in all three of their group matches against Bangladesh, Pakistan, and New Zealand respectively.
In the second semifinal, New Zealand confirmed their final berth with a commanding 50-run victory over South Africa.
Unfortunately for South Africa, this marks yet another instance of disappointment at the crucial knockout stage, as they once again stumbled against New Zealand. The team has often faced criticism for their inability to seal wins under pressure, earning them the ‘chokers’ label. This unfortunate trend stems from a mix of bad luck and critical errors at vital moments, leaving the team and their supporters yearning for a breakthrough at world events.
Before March 9 final, India and New Zealand have faced each other in the ICC Champions Trophy a total of 6 times. India has an upper hand with four wins – 1999, 2013, 2017 & 2025 (group match) – while the Kiwis remain successful only in 2009, one game in 2002 washed out.
It should be noted that Indian team has won all four of their games in Dubai, having declined to
travel to Pakistan due to political tensions. The seven other teams in the tournament have had to travel between three Pakistani cities and the UAE, creating logistical challenges.
As part of the tournament’s hybrid arrangement, South Africa had to travel to Dubai but then returned to Pakistan without playing any matches. India has been unbeaten in the 10 ODIs they have played in Dubai, winning nine of those.
Additionally, Indian team feel like a home crowd support in Dubai that plays a vital role in boosting the team’s morale and confidence. The energy and enthusiasm of the fans can create a positive atmosphere, motivating the players to perform at their best. The Indian cricket team has a passionate fan base, and playing at one venue ensures a consistent presence of their supporters, providing an emotional lift and psychological advantage.
India’s pace spearhead Mohammed Shami has acknowledged that playing all of their Champions Trophy matches at a single venue in Dubai has provided his team with a competitive advantage.
Shami, who returned figures of 3-48 in India’s four-wicket semifinal victory over Australia on Tuesday, said that familiarity with the Dubai International Cricket Stadium conditions and pitch behavior was beneficial.
India’s coach Gautam Gambhir addressed the accusations of India benefiting from Dubai’s conditions, calling them baseless and unfounded. He stated, “Even if this tournament was held in Pakistan, we would have still gone with two spinners. The idea that we have some kind of edge in Dubai is completely unfounded.”
He further refuted the criticisms, saying, “Tell me, when and where has India played a tournament under these current Dubai conditions? I can’t remember.” He added that Dubai’s conditions were unfamiliar to all teams, including India, pointing out that the pitches don’t favour India in any special way.
Though, Gambhir arguments, playing all matches at one venue a significant advantage for the Indian cricket team. Familiarity with the pitch and weather conditions is crucial in cricket, and playing at one venue allows the team to adapt their strategies and tactics more effectively.
The Indian team, known for its strong spin bowling and batting line-up, with spin friendly conditions provide the opportunity to its spinners to exploit opponent’s weakness against quality spin bowling.
Moreover, playing at one venue reduces the fatigue and logistical challenges associated with constant travel. The team can focus on their training and recovery without the disruptions of long journeys. This continuity can enhance their performance and maintain their physical and mental well-being.
Despite this ongoing debate regarding the benefits of a single venue for all matches, there’s no arguing that the Indian cricket team delivered an outstanding performance. Not only did they successfully chase their targets, but they also managed to defend a modest total of 249 runs, clinching a victory over New Zealand by 44 runs.
Their bowlers, not only restricted oppositions for posting a massive total, but their strong batting never allowed oppositions’ bowlers to restrict them before reaching the targets.
India is undoubtedly one of the best sides in One-Day Internationals (ODIs), boasting a formidable combination of strong batting and spin bowling. Their batting line-up, anchored by world-class players such as Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Shubman Gill, KR Rahul are capable of chasing down mammoth targets and setting imposing scores. These batsmen have consistently demonstrated their prowess, amassing runs with elegant strokes, power-hitting, and an uncanny ability to adapt to different match situations.
The strength of India’s batting is complemented by their exceptional spin bowling arsenal. Spinners like Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, and Kuldeep Yadav have become match-winners with their ability to deceive batsmen with flight, turn, and variations. The spinning duo of Jadeja and Kuldeep, in particular, has been instrumental in choking the opposition’s run flow in the middle overs and picking crucial wickets. Their effectiveness on subcontinental pitches, which often aid spin, has been a key factor in India’s success.
Furthermore, India’s depth in both departments adds to their dominance. With emerging talents consistently coming through the ranks, India has a steady supply of skilled batsmen and spinners ready to step up when needed. This blend of experience and youth ensures that India remains a top contender in the ODI format, capable of taking on any team on the global stage.
India also has a strong record in the Champions Trophy, showcasing their consistent performance in ICC tournaments.
March 9 match is the fifth final for India team in nine events. India first played Champions Trophy final against New Zealand in 2000 that won by the New Zealand. In the next event in 2002, India shared the trophy with Sri Lanka after the final was washed out twice.
In 2013, India won the Champions Trophy by defeating England. Men in green again qualify for the final in 2017 against arch-rival Pakistan, and first-time green shirts beat India in any ICC tournament and won the trophy first-time.
India’s chances of winning the Champions Trophy 2025 look promising. The team has shown exceptional form throughout the tournament, winning all their group stage matches and securing a spot in the final.
Their recent victories against strong teams like Australia, New Zealand and Pakistan have demonstrated their ability to perform under pressure.
One of the key factors contributing to India’s success is their balanced team composition. The batting line-up, led by experienced players like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, has consistently delivered strong performances. Emerging talents like Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer have also stepped up, adding depth to the batting order.
India’s bowling attack, particularly their spinners, has been instrumental in restricting opponents to manageable totals. Varun Chakaravarthy’s five-wicket haul against New Zealand is a testament to the effectiveness of their spin department. The pace attack has also been crucial in providing early breakthroughs and maintaining pressure on the opposition.
However, the team faces a significant challenge with the potential absence of Jasprit Bumrah due to injury. His all-round capabilities have been vital for India’s balance, and his absence could impact the team’s performance.
Despite this setback, India’s overall form and depth in both batting and bowling make them strong contenders for the Champions Trophy 2025. With the final match approaching, the team will need to maintain their focus and continue their winning momentum to lift the trophy once again.
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