IND vs NZ: The much-awaited final of the Champions Trophy 2025 between India and New Zealand is set to take place on March 9 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. The world’s attention is fixed on this high-voltage clash. Team India has showcased an exceptional performance in this tournament, thanks to its lethal spin attack led by Varun Chakravarthy, Ravindra Jadeja, and Axar Patel. These bowlers have completely dismantled the opposition batting line-ups throughout the tournament.
India has played four matches in the Champions Trophy 2025, and in all four encounters, the team has bowled out the opposition. The spin quartet has played a crucial role in these victories. Let’s take a closer look at these match-winning spinners who are expected to shine in the final as well.
1. Varun Chakravarthy – The Mystery Spinner
Varun Chakravarthy has emerged as a nightmare for opposition batsmen in this tournament. His mysterious bowling variations have left batters struggling to read his deliveries.
- Indian skipper Rohit Sharma made a bold decision by including him in the playing XI against New Zealand, leaving out Harshit Rana.
- The decision proved to be a masterstroke as Varun delivered an extraordinary spell, picking up five wickets and completely dismantling New Zealand’s batting order.
- The Kiwi batters had no answers to his deceptive spin, failing to build partnerships and struggling to score runs.
- His exceptional performance continued against Australia, where he claimed two crucial wickets.
Varun’s unpredictable variations and unorthodox bowling style make him a key asset for India in the final. If he delivers another match-winning spell, New Zealand’s batting lineup will be in deep trouble.
2. Axar Patel – The Middle Overs Specialist
Axar Patel has been a vital cog in India’s bowling attack, especially in the middle overs. His ability to contain runs and pick up crucial wickets has been a game-changer for Team India.
- Whenever Rohit Sharma has needed a breakthrough, he has turned to Axar, and the left-arm spinner has delivered.
- Axar bowls at a tight angle, not giving any room to batsmen, making it difficult for them to free their arms.
- His consistent line and length, along with accuracy, have troubled even the best batters in the world.
- Dubai’s pitch is expected to assist spinners, and Axar’s stump-to-stump line could make him a lethal weapon in the final.
So far, Axar has taken 72 wickets in ODI cricket, and he will be aiming to increase this tally in the final with another match-winning performance.
3. Kuldeep Yadav – The Googly Master
The Champions Trophy 2025 final will be played on the same pitch where India defeated Pakistan, as per reports from Kickbuzz. This is a big advantage for India, as Kuldeep Yadav had a sensational outing on this pitch against Pakistan.
- In the high-pressure clash against Pakistan, Kuldeep bowled brilliantly, picking up three wickets for just 40 runs.
- His ability to bowl variations, especially his lethal googlies, makes him a difficult bowler to face.
- He has the potential to dismantle any batting lineup, and his presence will be crucial for India in the final.
- Kuldeep has already taken 179 wickets in ODIs, and his experience will play a major role in deciding India’s fate in the final.
If Kuldeep can replicate his match-winning spell from the Pakistan game, India will have a huge upper hand over New Zealand.
4. Ravindra Jadeja – The Game Changer
Ravindra Jadeja is one of the most experienced players in the Indian squad. His ability to read the pitch quickly and adjust his bowling accordingly makes him an invaluable asset.
- Over the years, Jadeja has built a reputation as a partnership breaker who delivers breakthroughs when the team needs them the most.
- He bowls at a quick pace, not allowing batsmen to settle or read his deliveries easily.
- His ability to finish his overs quickly keeps the pressure on the opposition and prevents batsmen from getting into a rhythm.
- Jadeja has taken 230 wickets in ODI cricket, and his experience will be crucial for India’s title hopes.
Apart from his bowling, Jadeja is also an outstanding fielder and a reliable lower-order batsman, making him an all-round match-winner for India.
India’s Winning Formula – Spin to Win!
India’s incredible run in the Champions Trophy 2025 has been largely due to its dominant spin attack. The Varun-Axar-Kuldeep-Jadeja quartet has made life miserable for opposition batters.
- All four matches played – all four oppositions bowled out!
- The spinners have controlled the game, not allowing batters to settle.
- With Dubai’s pitch favoring spin, India holds a massive advantage over New Zealand in the final.
If these spinners continue their exceptional form in the final, India is well on its way to lifting its third Champions Trophy title.
The Champions Trophy 2025 final promises to be a thrilling contest between India and New Zealand. While New Zealand will rely on their batting strength, India’s spin quartet could prove to be the decisive factor.
With Varun Chakravarthy, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, and Ravindra Jadeja in top form, India has a golden opportunity to dominate New Zealand and win the championship. If the spinners execute their plans well, opponents will have a tough time surviving on the Dubai pitch.
