India will face New Zealand in their final Group A match of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Sunday, March 2. With both teams already securing semifinal spots, this match will determine the group leader.
New Zealand have often been a tough 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 be ready for every challenge.
Both teams come into this match with two wins each, brimming with confidence. The Dubai pitch is expected to be batting-friendly while offering something for the bowlers as well.
India and New Zealand have already eliminated Bangladesh and Pakistan from the competition, making this an intense battle between two in-form sides eager to maintain their unbeaten record heading into the semifinals.
India and New Zealand last met in the Champions Trophy in 2000
The last time India faced New Zealand in the Champions Trophy was in 2000, where they met in the final. The Kiwis triumphed by four wickets in Nairobi, securing their only ICC white-ball title to date.
After winning the toss, New Zealand captain Stephen Fleming opted to bowl first. India’s openers, Sourav Ganguly and Sachin Tendulkar, built a strong 141-run partnership before Tendulkar was run out for 69.
Ganguly went on to score a superb century (117 off 130), but India struggled after his dismissal, with Rahul Dravid’s 22 being the next highest contribution. India posted 264/6, with Scott Styris leading New 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 game.
New 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 must remain cautious against Mitchell Santner’s side, as only one team will remain unbeaten after this clash.
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