The cricketing universe is abuzz with excitement as India gears up to clash with New Zealand in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 finale, set to take place in Dubai this Sunday, March 9. Both squads have showcased powerhouse performances leading to the finals, with India triumphing over Australia and New Zealand sweeping past South Africa to claim their spots in this much-awaited showdown.
### Michael Clarke Predicts the Victor – India or New Zealand?
Ahead of this high-voltage final, former Australian skipper Michael Clarke shared his thoughts on the game, offering insights into the potential star players and the strategies both teams might employ. Speaking on the Beyond23 Cricket Podcast, Clarke anticipated a nail-biter of a match and singled out players he expects to shine. His money is on India clinching the coveted Champions Trophy against New Zealand at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
“I’m sticking with my original prediction before the tournament even started. I’m backing India to win the ICC Champions Trophy. It’s shaping up to be an incredible match, but I believe India will come out on top,” Clarke commented.
Delving deeper into the potential game-changers for Team India, Clarke mentioned Shubman Gill as the batsman likely to score big and Kuldeep Yadav as the key bowler to watch.
“I would bet on Shubman Gill. He looked sharp against Australia, and his current form is impressive. Opening the innings is the ideal time to bat, and I think he could hit a century. They should stick with the four spinners, and I’d highlight Kuldeep Yadav. He’s incredibly talented with a killer wrong ‘un and consistently takes wickets,” Clarke elaborated.
### Challenges in the Champions Trophy 2025 Final
Despite acknowledging the solid form of New Zealand, Clarke pointed out the hurdles they might encounter against India in Dubai. He noted that the only real advantage New Zealand possesses is their experience playing India under similar conditions earlier in this tournament. Clarke stressed the importance of an aggressive game plan for the Kiwis, both in batting and bowling, to break through India’s stronghold. With both sides fervently eyeing that prestigious ICC trophy, the duel promises to be a gripping affair.
“Facing India in Dubai poses significant challenges for New Zealand. Their edge lies in having experienced the conditions there. If they can decipher where Australia fell short—turning scores like 270 into a more formidable 300—it could tip the scales. They need to adopt an aggressive bowling strategy and similarly bold tactics on the field. If they can capitalize on these areas, it’s not guaranteed they’ll win, but they certainly have a chance. They’re competent and currently in good form,” Clarke concluded.
Both teams are set for a thrilling face-off, each hoping to etch their name on the ICC trophy with a performance that cricket fans around the globe will remember for years.
