The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final between India and New Zealand is scheduled for March 9 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. India has an unbeatable record going into the final, having won every match. Their triumph in the semi-finals demonstrated the depth of their batting unit as they pursued Australia’s 265-run mark.
Known for their agility, New Zealand defeated South Africa by 50 runs in the semi-final to earn a position in the final. They have advanced to their fifth ICC global event final in the last ten years because to their consistent performances.
Both teams assemble formidable lineups, but the Men in Blue have a minor advantage due to their previous domination and exposure in Dubai. However, the BlackCaps are strong opponents due to their adaptability and tactical skill. As these two cricketing titans prepare to take the trophy, cricket fans around the world expect a thrilling match.
Here are 3 changes India might make in Champions Trophy 2025 final vs New Zealand
1. KL Rahul to move at number 5
In the last match, India might make a calculated move by moving their batsman and wicketkeeper, KL Rahul, to bat at number five. By offering stability and firepower, this could seek to fortify the middle order. Rahul’s elevation in the batting order due to his skill and experience could prove vital for India’s pursuit of the trophy in the last match on Sunday. Conversely, the Karnataka batsman might make amends with a stronger performance stemming from the eerie recollection of the Ahmedabad World Cup 2023 final.
2. Ravindra Jadeja to bat at 7
India may strengthen their batting depth and all-around balance by selecting Ravindra Jadeja to bat at number seven. Jadeja may be very important because of his ability to speed up in the final overs and his finishing prowess. In addition, his batting record against the Kiwis has been superior over the course of his career. His left-handedness also provides variation against opposing bowlers in the high-stakes match, thus he is a good choice for the seventh slot in the lineup.
3. Arshdeep Singh to replace Kuldeep Yadav
This can be a shocking move because Kuldeep Yadav may be replaced in the Champions Trophy final by left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh. This change can give diversity to India’s bowling attack due to the changing pitch conditions and to maintain team balance. In the finals, Arshdeep’s swing and death-over skills can prove to be very important. Kuldeep hasn’t been as successful as other players in the tournament, and the pacer hasn’t received a single game yet. The Guna-born player might therefore win out over the Uttar Pradesh spinner.
India
