The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final is set to be a blockbuster clash as India takes on New Zealand at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. With both teams vying for glory, all eyes are on Team India’s potential lineup changes, especially with Virat Kohli’s injury scare. Here’s everything you need to know about the final, including expert insights, predicted XIs, and key updates.
Virat Kohli’s Injury Scare: Will He Play?
In a dramatic twist, Virat Kohli suffered a minor injury during India’s final practice session ahead of the high-stakes final. The 35-year-old batting icon was seen limping off after a blow near his knee, sparking concerns among fans and analysts. While the team management has downplayed the severity, stating that Kohli is likely to play, his availability remains uncertain.
Expert Insight:
“If Kohli is ruled out, it will be a massive blow for India. His experience and ability to anchor the innings in high-pressure games are irreplaceable. KL Rahul stepping up to No. 3 and Rishabh Pant coming into the XI could be the way forward,” says former cricketer Aakash Chopra.
India’s Likely Playing XI: Key Changes and Tactical Decisions
India has maintained a consistent lineup throughout the tournament, but the final could see some strategic tweaks. Here’s the predicted XI:
- Rohit Sharma (c) – The skipper has been in sublime form and will look to lead from the front.
- Shubman Gill – A reliable opener who has provided strong starts.
- Virat Kohli/KL Rahul – If fit, Kohli will bat at No. 3; otherwise, Rahul will step up.
- Shreyas Iyer – The middle-order anchor has been one of India’s most consistent performers.
- KL Rahul/Rishabh Pant (wk) – Rahul retains the wicketkeeping role unless Pant replaces Kohli.
- Hardik Pandya – The all-rounder adds balance with his explosive batting and handy bowling.
- Axar Patel – A spin-bowling all-rounder who strengthens the lower order.
- Ravindra Jadeja – His experience and all-round skills will be crucial.
- Varun Chakravarthy – The mystery spinner, fresh from a five-wicket haul against New Zealand, is India’s X-factor.
- Kuldeep Yadav/Washington Sundar – Depending on conditions, Sundar could replace Kuldeep for extra batting depth.
- Mohammed Shami – The pace spearhead will lead India’s bowling attack.
Tactical Note:
The Dubai pitch has favored spinners throughout the tournament, making Varun Chakravarthy a key player. However, if India opts for an extra pacer, Harshit Rana could be a surprise inclusion.
New Zealand’s Injury Woes: Matt Henry’s Fitness in Doubt
New Zealand has its own injury concerns, with pacer Matt Henry racing against time to recover from a niggle picked up in the semi-finals. Henry bowled in the nets, but his availability will be decided on match day. If he’s ruled out, Jacob Duffy is expected to step in as a like-for-like replacement.
Predicted New Zealand XI:
- Will Young
- Rachin Ravindra
- Kane Williamson (c)
- Tom Latham (wk)
- Daryl Mitchell
- Glenn Phillips
- Michael Bracewell
- Mitchell Santner
- Kyle Jamieson
- William O’Rourke
- Matt Henry/Jacob Duffy
Key Match-Ups to Watch Out For
- Varun Chakravarthy vs. Kane Williamson: The mystery spinner’s battle against New Zealand’s captain could decide the game’s outcome.
- Rohit Sharma vs. Trent Boult: Sharma’s ability to handle Boult’s swing early on will set the tone for India’s innings.
- Hardik Pandya vs. Mitchell Santner: Pandya’s aggressive batting against Santner’s economical spin will be a fascinating duel.
Expert Predictions and Final Thoughts
Cricket analysts believe the match will hinge on how both teams handle the pressure of a final. India’s spin-heavy attack and New Zealand’s balanced lineup make this a contest too close to call.
“India has the edge due to their spinners and home-like conditions in Dubai, but New Zealand’s resilience in ICC tournaments cannot be underestimated,” says Harsha Bhogle.
What’s Your Prediction?
Who do you think will lift the ICC Champions Trophy 2025? Will India’s spinners dominate, or will New Zealand’s all-round strength prevail? Share your thoughts in the comments below and join the conversation!
