India will face Latest Zealand of their final Group A match of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy on the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Sunday, March 2. With each teams already securing semifinal spots, this match will determine the group leader.
Latest Zealand have often been a tricky opponent for India in ICC tournaments, with Indian fans still recalling the heartbreaking 2019 ODI World Cup semifinal loss. This time, the Men in Blue will likely be ready for each challenge.
Each teams come into this match with two wins each, brimming with confidence. The Dubai pitch is predicted to be batting-friendly while offering something for the bowlers as well.
India and Latest Zealand have already eliminated Bangladesh and Pakistan from the competition, making this an intense battle between two in-form sides desirous to maintain their unbeaten record heading into the semifinals.
India and Latest Zealand last met within the Champions Trophy in 2000
The last time India faced Latest Zealand within the Champions Trophy was in 2000, where they met in the ultimate. The Kiwis triumphed by 4 wickets in Nairobi, securing their only ICC white-ball title to this point.
After winning the toss, Latest Zealand captain Stephen Fleming opted to bowl first. India’s openers, Sourav Ganguly and Sachin Tendulkar, built a powerful 141-run partnership before Tendulkar was run out for 69.
Ganguly went on to attain an excellent century (117 off 130), but India struggled after his dismissal, with Rahul Dravid’s 22 being the following highest contribution. India posted 264/6, with Scott Styris leading Latest Zealand’s bowling attack (2/53).
In response, the Kiwis lost early wickets, struggling at 82/3 after 15 overs. Chris Cairns then anchored the chase, scoring a match-winning 102* off 113 balls, while Chris Harris’ 46 helped turn the sport.
Latest Zealand eventually clinched their maiden ICC title, with Adam Parore guiding them past the finish line. While history won’t be on India’s mind on Sunday, they need to remain cautious against Mitchell Santner’s side, as just one team will remain unbeaten after this clash.
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