DUBAI: The much-anticipated Champions Trophy final has arrived, with India and New Zealand set to clash for the title in Dubai today. Team India, led by Rohit Sharma, has been dominant throughout the tournament, remaining unbeaten so far. On the other hand, New Zealand has also been in top form, making the final a thrilling contest.
In the group stage, India had already defeated New Zealand, extending their winning streak against the Kiwis to six consecutive ODI victories. This record boosts India’s confidence, but cricket analysts warn against underestimating the Kiwis, known for their resilience in big tournaments.
India has previously won the Champions Trophy in 2002 and 2013 and finished as runners-up in 2017, losing to Pakistan. Now, after 12 years, India has another golden opportunity to reclaim the title. A victory would make India the most successful team in Champions Trophy history.
Predicted Playing XIs
India:
Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Varun Chakravarthy.
New Zealand:
Devon Conway, Rachin Ravindra, Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham, Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner (C), Kyle Jamieson, William O’Rourke, Jacob Duffy.