India has secured six ICC titles across three limited-overs formats, winning twice in each. Meanwhile, New Zealand has lifted the trophy twice, both times at India’s expense.
Stick to the Winning Formula
India doesn’t need drastic changes to stop New Zealand’s streak. If they follow the successful strategy of the past three weeks, they stand a strong chance. However, they know how dangerous New Zealand can be when given an opportunity.
India has won matches by both chasing and defending, including a victory over New Zealand last Sunday. While they may have a preference, they are prepared to adapt. Ahead of the final, let’s examine India’s key strategies to deny Mitchell Santner a place among Stephen Fleming and Kane Williamson as ICC trophy-winning captains.
Start Strong with Bat or Ball
India has lost 14 tosses in a row, but that hasn’t stopped them from achieving a 9-4 win-loss record since November 2023. Rohit Sharma would love the chance to dictate play, but regardless of the toss, India must be alert from the start.
A sluggish beginning can put them in trouble. Though a 50-over game isn’t won in the first 10 overs, it can certainly be lost there. Keeping emotions in check and staying focused is crucial.
Get Rohit Sharma to Convert Starts
Rohit has three double centuries, but in recent years, he has prioritized aggressive starts over big scores. Despite his risk-taking approach, he has scored 980 runs in his last 20 innings at a strike rate of 126.45, smashing 110 fours and 49 sixes.
He has hit two centuries and five fifties during this period. If he can channel his aggression wisely and bat for at least 25 overs, he could decide the game.
Keep Kohli’s Hot Streak Alive
Virat Kohli returned to his best form just in time for the Champions Trophy. He dominated against Pakistan and Australia, scoring an unbeaten 100 and a classy 84 respectively.
His partnership with Shreyas Iyer in both games was crucial. As a proven big-match player—evident in his 76-run knock in the T20 World Cup final—Kohli’s role will be vital in this clash.
Run Hard, Avoid Dots
The Dubai International Cricket Stadium has a slow outfield, making boundary-hitting difficult. Still, India has maintained a healthy 5.30 run rate. Interestingly, only 42.2% of their 991 runs have come from boundaries.
Kohli, India’s top scorer with 217 runs, has hit just 15 fours, making up 27.7% of his total runs. With New Zealand’s fielders known for cutting off angles, India must keep the scoreboard moving by converting singles and twos.
Strike Early with the New Ball
India has relied heavily on spin in this tournament. They dropped Harshit Rana after two games, bringing in Varun Chakravarthy, which paid off. However, Mohammed Shami has also played a crucial role, taking eight wickets at an economy of 4.96.
India needs early breakthroughs from Shami or Hardik Pandya, especially against Rachin Ravindra. The left-hander has two centuries in the tournament and scores quickly. Stopping him early is key.
Contain Kane Williamson
Kane Williamson, New Zealand’s former captain, is arguably their best-ever batter. In the league stage against India, he played a composed 81 before falling to Axar Patel. Against South Africa in the semifinal, he adapted brilliantly on a better batting pitch.
Williamson anchors the innings, allowing Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham, Glenn Phillips, and Michael Bracewell to attack freely. India must remove him early to prevent him from guiding the chase.
Hold Every Catch
India has dropped seven catches in four games but has managed to recover. Against New Zealand, they missed Williamson twice. In the semifinal, Shami dropped simple return catches from Travis Head and Steve Smith.
As the tournament progressed, India’s fielding improved. Ravindra Jadeja has led the way, while Axar Patel and Shreyas Iyer have pulled off direct-hit run-outs. Against a side like New Zealand, which thrives on half-chances, India must be flawless in the field.
The Final Challenge
New Zealand has proven time and again that they can exploit the smallest opening. India, however, has the form and momentum. If they execute their game plan, they can break New Zealand’s dominance and add another ICC trophy to their collection.
