The stage is set for a thrilling final in the Champions Trophy as India vs New Zealand lock horns in Dubai. With both teams giving their best performance in the tournament, cricket fans across the globe are eager to witness this thrilling encounter. While India aim to cement their legacy by winning the Champions Trophy for the third time, New Zealand are determined to rewrite history and emerge victorious in yet another big final.
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India vs New Zealand: Battle of strategy and talent
India have dominated the entire tournament, registering impressive wins in all their four matches. The Rohit Sharma-led side has shown great consistency, with both the batting and bowling units putting up a good show in unison. The Virat Kohli-led batting order has performed well under pressure, while the spin-heavy bowling attack has done well on the turning pitches of the UAE.
The inclusion of Varun Chakravarthy in India’s playing XI proved to be a game changer. The mystery spinner put up a match-winning performance against New Zealand in the group stage, taking 5 for 42 and tormenting the Kiwi batsmen. His unpredictable changes have made him a key figure in India’s strategy for the final. New Zealand, however, are not backing down. The Black Caps have showcased their resilience in high-pressure games, most notably crushing South Africa by a record-breaking 362-run score in the semifinal. Led by Kane Williamson and with young sensation Rachin Ravindra in top form, New Zealand’s batting lineup is well-equipped to challenge India’s spin challenge.
Chakravarthy factor: The challenge for New Zealand
Ahead of the final, New Zealand coach Gary Stead acknowledged the challenge posed by Chakravarthy’s deceptive spin. “There’s no doubt he’s a great bowler,” Stead said. “We’ll apply our thinking to find ways to counter him and still score runs.”
New Zealand’s approach to dealing with Chakravarthy will be crucial. Their experienced batsmen, including Williamson and Tom Latham, will have to adjust quickly to his variations, especially under floodlights, which can make reading his deliveries even more difficult.
India vs New Zealand: Journey to the final
India’s journey to the final has been impeccable, with wins over Bangladesh, Pakistan, Australia and New Zealand. The combination of Mohammed Shami’s pace and the spin quartet of Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel and Chakravarthy have given India a tactical edge over opponents.
New Zealand, on the other hand, bounced back after an early loss to India to make their way to the final. Their comprehensive semifinal win against South Africa, thanks to centuries from Ravindra and Williamson, showcased their batting prowess. With an effective spin arsenal of Mitchell Santner, Michael Bracewell and Glenn Phillips, the Black Caps are well-placed for the spin-dominated contest.
A historic clash awaits
With India aiming to clinch consecutive ICC trophies and New Zealand looking to make a comeback, the final is expected to be a thrilling contest. The Black Caps have a history of troubling India in big matches, as seen in the 2000 Champions Trophy final and the 2021 World Test Championship. However, India’s current form, along with home-like conditions in Dubai tilts the balance in their favour.
As cricket fans eagerly await this huge clash, one thing is for sure- the India vs New Zealand final will be a spectacle for the ages. Will India once again etch their name in history or will the New Zealand team change history? All the questions will be answered on Sunday in the battle for the Champions Trophy.
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