India and New Zealand will face each other in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 group-stage match in Dubai on March 2. Both teams have already secured a place in the semi-finals, but this match will decide who tops Group A.
- The match will have crucial one-on-one battles between top players.
- These battles could change the flow of the game.
- Players like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Rachin Ravindra will play an important role.
1. Virat Kohli vs Mitchell Santner
Virat Kohli is one of the best batters in the world, but he struggles against left-arm spinners. New Zealand’s Mitchell Santner is a top left-arm bowler who could trouble Kohli.
- Kohli has been dismissed by left-arm spinners 23 times in ODIs.
- Santner has been in great form recently.
- If Santner wins this battle, India could lose an early wicket.
2. Rohit Sharma vs Matt Henry
Rohit Sharma is an aggressive batter who likes to score quickly in the powerplay. However, New Zealand’s Matt Henry is known for his tight bowling and discipline.
- Henry has dismissed Rohit twice in ODIs.
- Rohit averages just 23 against Henry.
- If Henry gets Rohit out early, India’s batting could be in trouble.
3. Glenn Phillips vs Harshit Rana
New Zealand’s Glenn Phillips is a powerful hitter who plays an important role in the last 10 overs. India’s fast bowler Harshit Rana will try to stop him.
- Phillips is known for hitting big sixes in the final overs.
- Harshit Rana is a good death-over bowler.
- If Harshit stops Phillips, New Zealand’s total could be lower.
4. Rachin Ravindra vs Axar Patel
Rachin Ravindra is in top form and plays spin well. But India’s left-arm spinner Axar Patel has a good record against him.
- Ravindra has been dismissed by left-arm spinners six times in ODIs and T20Is.
- Axar bowls in the powerplay and middle overs, making him a key player.
- If Axar gets Ravindra out early, New Zealand’s middle order could struggle.
5. Shreyas Iyer vs Michael Bracewell
Shreyas Iyer is a strong middle-order batter, while Michael Bracewell is an economical bowler who takes key wickets.
- Iyer is excellent against spin.
- Bracewell builds pressure with tight bowling.
- If Bracewell wins, New Zealand could slow India’s scoring rate.
The India vs New Zealand match in Dubai will be a thrilling contest. These five player battles will be crucial in deciding the winner. The team that wins more of these face-offs will have a better chance to top Group A.
Check out the Champions Trophy Stats
