Fri Mar 07 10:28:11 UTC 2025: ## India Favourites to Win $2.24 Million ICC Champions Trophy Against New Zealand

**Dubai, UAE** – India and New Zealand will clash in the final of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 on Sunday at 1 PM local time (9 AM GMT) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. India, undefeated throughout the tournament, are the strong favorites against New Zealand, who secured their place in the final after a hard-fought victory. The winner will take home a $2.24 million prize, a significant portion of the tournament’s total $6.9 million purse.

The final pits two cricketing giants against each other. India boasts a dominant head-to-head record, with 61 wins to New Zealand’s 50 in 119 matches. Furthermore, India currently enjoys a six-match winning streak against the Black Caps. However, New Zealand won the 2000 edition of the tournament and will be looking to cause an upset.

The match will be played under sunny skies with a light breeze, and temperatures are expected to peak around 34 degrees Celsius at the start. A new pitch is expected, likely to be slow, offering a different challenge compared to the pitches used throughout the tournament. This has been a point of contention as India played all their matches in Dubai on similar surfaces, while New Zealand had to adapt to differing conditions in Pakistan.

**Team News:**

India is expected to field an unchanged XI, with Varun Chakravarthy retaining his place after impressive performances. Harshit Rana will be the likely omission.

New Zealand’s team selection hinges on the fitness of Matt Henry, who suffered a shoulder injury during the semi-final. If fit, the Black Caps are also expected to remain unchanged.

**Where to Watch:**

The final will be televised and streamed globally by ICC’s approved broadcasters. Tickets for the final sold out quickly on the official platform but remain available on resale sites at inflated prices. Al Jazeera Sport will also provide live text and photo commentary from 4 AM GMT.

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