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The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has reached its thrilling conclusion, with India and New Zealand set to battle it out for the coveted title. The summit clash is scheduled to take place in Dubai on March 9, where the cricketing world will witness two top-tier teams fight for supremacy. India secured their spot in the final with a dominant victory over Australia, while New Zealand triumphed over South Africa in the semifinals to book their place in the grand finale.
Wasim Akram picks his favourite
Legendary Pakistan pacer Wasim Akram has shared his insights on the highly anticipated final, highlighting India’s slight edge over New Zealand. Akram acknowledged that while India holds a higher chance of winning, New Zealand’s prior experience in Dubai and their strong spin attack could pose a threat to the Indian batting lineup. He suggested that India’s victory is not a certainty, as New Zealand’s ability to exploit the conditions might tilt the balance in their favor.
“I believe that this match will be 60-40. 60% India and 40% Kiwi team will be the contenders to win this match. I believe that New Zealand has played in Dubai and they know what the conditions are here. New Zealand also has three spinners who can trouble the Indian batsmen against India. In such a situation, it is difficult to say that India is going to win the final,” said Akram on Ten Sports.
Misbah-ul-Haq weighs in on the final
Former Pakistan captain Misbah-ul-Haq also shared his thoughts on the high-stakes encounter, acknowledging the strength of both teams. Misbah highlighted that both teams have performed exceptionally well and possess a well-balanced squad suited to the conditions. While he considered India the favorite, he warned that New Zealand has the capability to spring a surprise, making the final a tightly contested battle rather than a one-sided affair.
“The two best teams are playing in the final. Both are balanced teams; both have played good cricket. The balance of both the teams is very good according to the situation. India is definitely the favorite; India has also played good cricket. They are full of confidence. They are understanding the situation of Dubai well. But the team in front, New Zealand, is a team that can defeat India. Seeing the way the Kiwi team has played, I feel that this match will be a close contest,” said Misbah.
Also READ: Temba Bavuma explains reasons behind South Africa’s defeat in the semifinal of Champions Trophy 2025 against New Zealand
Fans eagerly await the grand finale
With the Champions Trophy 2025 final just around the corner, cricket fans across the globe are buzzing with excitement. The clash between two formidable teams promises to be a nail-biting encounter, with star players from both sides set to showcase their skills on the grand stage. Social media platforms are abuzz with predictions and debates, as fans eagerly await what could be one of the most thrilling finals in recent history.
