IND vs NZ: Nasser Hussain predicts the winner of Champions Trophy 2025 final

IND vs NZ: Nasser Hussain predicts the winner of Champions Trophy 2025 final

The stage is set for a thrilling showdown as India and New Zealand prepare to clash in the final of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 on March 9 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. After weeks of high-intensity cricket, two of the most consistent teams in world cricket over the past decade will battle it out for the prestigious title.

While their group-stage encounter was little more than a formality, this time, the stakes could not be higher. India, unbeaten in the tournament, are chasing their third Champions Trophy title, while New Zealand are looking to end a 25-year wait since their first ICC title in 2000.

With star players in peak form, tactical battles on the horizon, and history at stake, this final promises to be an unforgettable contest.

Nasser Hussain Analyzes the Final: India Favorites, but Beware of New Zealand

Former England captain and respected cricket analyst Nasser Hussain recently shared his thoughts on the highly anticipated final. While he acknowledged that India enter the contest as favorites, he warned that New Zealand should not be written off.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Hussain emphasized that the Black Caps are known for stepping up on big occasions and have the mental toughness to challenge India till the very end.

“They will not bottle it, they won’t choke. We were having dinner with Aaron Finch, and he summed it up pretty well, saying New Zealand are never a side that beat themselves. They turn up, they put in a performance, and they fight till the end. They may not always have the biggest superstars, but they have some of the toughest cricketers who give their absolute best in every match—and that’s why they always reach semi-finals and finals,” Hussain was quoted as saying by Hindustan Times.

Why New Zealand Are a Formidable Opponent

Hussain pointed out several key factors that make New Zealand a dangerous team in high-pressure matches:

  • Resilience Under Pressure: Unlike teams that crumble in crunch situations, New Zealand have a reputation for fighting till the last ball.
  • Balanced Squad: The squad boasts a great mix of experienced players and young talents, ensuring a well-rounded team effort.
  • Proven Match-Winners: Kane Williamson, Trent Boult, Tim Southee, and Mitchell Santner have been match-winners for years.
  • Rising Stars: The emergence of Rachin Ravindra, one of the tournament’s standout batters, adds fresh firepower to the squad.

“They also have that great mix of experienced players and young talents. Kane Williamson has been their rock for years, and then you have someone like Rachin Ravindra, who has announced himself on the big stage. If New Zealand lose this final, it won’t be because they crumbled – it will be because India were simply the better side on the day,” Hussain concluded.

The Road to the Final: How India and New Zealand Got Here

India’s Dominance – Unbeaten Streak Continues

India have been the most dominant team in the Champions Trophy 2025, winning all their matches convincingly. Under the leadership of Rohit Sharma, they have played a fearless brand of cricket, with batting depth, lethal bowling, and rock-solid fielding.

Key Moments in India’s Campaign

  • Group Stage: Defeated South Africa, Pakistan, and New Zealand comprehensively.
  • Semifinal vs. Australia: A gritty unbeaten 42 from KL Rahul guided India to victory in a tense chase.
  • Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli have been in sublime touch, while Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj have been the backbone of the bowling attack.

With momentum on their side, India will be keen to finish the job and add another ICC trophy to their cabinet.

New Zealand’s Steely Journey – Peaking at the Right Time

New Zealand have once again proved their critics wrong, reaching another ICC final through sheer grit and determination.

Key Moments in New Zealand’s Campaign

  • Group Stage: Despite losing to India, they secured crucial wins against England and Sri Lanka.
  • Semifinal vs. England: Kane Williamson’s masterclass under pressure and a clinical bowling display from Trent Boult secured a spot in the final.
  • Rachin Ravindra has been a revelation, scoring consistently and proving to be a big-match player.

Having played in multiple finals in recent years, the Black Caps know what it takes to handle the pressure.

Key Battles to Watch Out For in the Final

1. Rohit Sharma vs. Trent Boult – Powerplay Showdown

Boult has troubled Rohit Sharma in the past, dismissing him early in multiple encounters. The battle in the first few overs will be crucial in setting the tone for the match.

2. Virat Kohli vs. Mitchell Santner – India’s Run-Machine vs. New Zealand’s Mr. Consistent

Kohli has been in red-hot form, but Santner’s ability to control the middle overs could be the key to breaking India’s batting momentum.

3. Rachin Ravindra vs. Jasprit Bumrah – Young Star vs. World-Class Bowler

Ravindra has been New Zealand’s best batter this tournament, but facing Bumrah’s unplayable yorkers and variations will be his biggest test yet.

4. Kane Williamson vs. Kuldeep Yadav – The Captain’s Mastery vs. Spin Trickery

Williamson is a master of playing spin, but Kuldeep’s wrist spin variations could pose a major threat.

The Final Verdict – Who Will Lift the Trophy?

  • India’s Strengths: Superior batting depth, lethal bowling attack, and an unbeaten run.
  • New Zealand’s Strengths: Experience in ICC finals, never-say-die attitude, and disciplined bowling.

While India are favorites on paper, New Zealand’s ability to thrive under pressure makes them a dangerous opposition. If India want to win, they will have to outplay the Black Caps in every department—because New Zealand will not hand over the trophy without a fight.

A Historic Final Awaits

As the cricketing world gears up for the Champions Trophy 2025 final, the pressure is on both teams to deliver on the biggest stage.

  • Will India complete their dominant campaign with a title win?
  • Or will New Zealand script another historic upset and win their first Champions Trophy?

March 9, Dubai International Cricket Stadium – One match, one winner, eternal glory. Let the battle begin!

Please check for information on the best betting sites in India – https://selectory.org/best-betting-sites/

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