Champions Trophy Final: Rohit Sharma & Team Aim to Make History Against New Zealand in Dubai

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- India seeks redemption after past losses to New Zealand.
- Both teams have a rich history in ICC knockout matches.
- This final marks India's third consecutive appearance in the ICC Champions Trophy.
- New Zealand has a strong record against India in previous knockouts.
- The match promises to be a thrilling contest.
New Delhi, March 7 (NationPress) The unbeaten Indian cricket team is set to face the formidable New Zealand in the final showdown of the ICC Champions Trophy in Dubai this Sunday. After almost eight years, this eight-team tournament is poised to crown a new champion.
In a twist of fate, India fell to Pakistan in the 2017 Champions Trophy final, missing out on securing their second consecutive title. This final marks India's third consecutive appearance in the ICC Champions Trophy finals, making them the first team to achieve this feat.
India and New Zealand were part of the same group, with their last meeting resulting in a 44-run victory for India, securing their place at the top of Group A with three straight wins. India progressed to the final by defeating the ODI World Champions, Australia, in the semi-final by four wickets.
Conversely, New Zealand began their campaign with a win against the defending champions and hosts, Pakistan, in Karachi, followed by a victory and a defeat against Bangladesh and India respectively. In the semi-final, the Blackcaps triumphed over South Africa by 50 runs, setting up a climactic showdown against India.
As anticipation builds for the tournament's winner, historical data from previous ICC knockout matches between these two teams suggests a notable advantage for New Zealand.
India vs New Zealand in ICC Knockout Matches Record
In their four encounters in ICC knockout matches, New Zealand holds a commanding 3-1 advantage over India. These matches include the 2000 Champions Trophy final, the 2019 and 2023 World Cup semi-finals, and the 2021 World Test Championship final. India’s lone victory came in their most recent clash during the 2023 World Cup semi-final.
New Zealand clinched their inaugural ICC title by defeating India in the 2000 Champions Trophy final, successfully chasing down 265 runs, fueled by Chris Cairns’ match-winning century. They echoed this success in 2021, overcoming India in the WTC final to secure their second and latest ICC trophy.
India vs New Zealand Head-to-Head Record in ODIs
Out of 119 ODIs played between the two teams, India has won 61 matches while New Zealand has emerged victorious in 50 encounters. One ODI match ended in a tie, while seven matches have resulted in no outcome.