The stage is perfectly set for an electrifying ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final as India and New Zealand prepare to battle for glory in Dubai. With both teams eager to etch their names in history, the anticipation among fans is at an all-time high.

New Zealand won the toss and elected to bat first, hoping to set a formidable total under the lights. India, on the other hand, has opted for continuity, sticking to their winning combination. However, an injury-enforced change sees the Black Caps replacing Matt Henry with Nathan Smith in their playing XI.

India heads into the final as the favorites, having already bested New Zealand in the group stage. Yet, underestimating the Kiwis would be a mistake, especially after their dominant semi-final victory over South Africa. Known for their resilience in ICC tournaments, New Zealand will be determined to avenge their earlier defeat and clinch the coveted trophy.

Several key individual battles will unfold in this high-pressure clash, but one of the most anticipated matchups is between Virat Kohli and New Zealand's spin maestro, Mitchell Santner. Kohli, a master of chasing under pressure, will be keen to counter Santner’s wily left-arm spin, setting the stage for a thrilling duel.

Meanwhile, speculation has been rife about whether this could mark Rohit Sharma’s final ODI appearance. However, his teammate Shubman Gill dismissed any confirmation of such discussions within the dressing room during the pre-match press conference. Regardless of his future, Rohit will undoubtedly aim to lead India to yet another ICC title, adding to their T20 World Cup triumph last year under his captaincy.

With history, legacy, and championship glory at stake, the final promises to be a blockbuster showdown between two cricketing powerhouses.