ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final: Shreyas Iyer to be the vital clog for India

India’s showdown against New Zealand in the final of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to be a thrilling contest, one that could echo the 2000 final, when New Zealand triumphed over India to claim their first ICC title. For India to avoid a repeat of that outcome, several key players need to rise to the occasion and deliver on the big stage. Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, and Hardik Pandya are all crucial figures in this India lineup. These players are seasoned campaigners, well-versed in handling pressure and performing when it matters most. However, if there is one player who could potentially be the X-factor for India in the final, it’s Shreyas Iyer.

Shreyas Iyer has been the X-factor in the India vs New Zealand ODI matches

Iyer has been an anchor in India’s middle order, known for his ability to play under pressure and construct crucial innings. His composure and adaptability, especially in high-stakes matches, make him a player to watch. With his ability to accelerate at the right moments and play the key shots when required, Iyer could prove to be the difference-maker for India. Against a formidable New Zealand side, his contributions could go a long way in guiding India to victory and ensuring they avoid a repeat of the 2000 defeat.

Shreyas Iyer's record against New Zealand in ODIs is nothing short of remarkable. While his overall career average stands at an impressive 48.2, his performance against the Blackcaps has been even more outstanding. In the eight innings he has played against New Zealand, Iyer has accumulated 563 runs at an exceptional average of 70. This includes two centuries, showcasing his consistency and ability to deliver big scores against a top-tier opposition.

What makes his record even more impressive is his aggressive approach, with a strike rate above 100 when facing New Zealand. This demonstrates Iyer's ability to not just anchor the innings but also accelerate the scoring when required, making him a dangerous asset in the middle order. His knack for performing against New Zealand adds another layer of confidence for India heading into the final, as he has a proven track record of handling pressure in high-stakes encounters. With such a strong record, Iyer’s contributions in the final could be pivotal in helping India lift the Champions Trophy, making him a key figure to watch in the crucial India vs New Zealand showdown.

One of the standout performances came during the 2020 ODI series in New Zealand, where Iyer was in exceptional form. He scored 103 runs in the first match, followed by 52 in the second, and then another solid 62 in the third. These knocks not only showcased his ability to play under pressure but also highlighted his adaptability, whether it was building an innings or accelerating when needed.

Such consistent performances against New Zealand, including those crucial knocks in 2020, have cemented Iyer’s reputation as a key player for India in high-stakes games. His form against the Blackcaps makes him one of the most important players for India in the upcoming final, where his ability to perform under pressure could prove to be the difference-maker.

Shreyas Iyer has consistently delivered strong performances against New Zealand, including two ODIs in 2022 where he scored 80 and 49. In ICC events, however, he has been particularly impactful. During the 2023 ODI World Cup, he made 33 in Dharamsala and followed it with a crucial 105 in the semi-final in Mumbai. On March 2, 2025, in the Champions Trophy, Iyer played a vital knock of 79 in Dubai, leading India to victory. Across all these appearances, his consistency is remarkable. Out of eight innings against New Zealand, Shreyas has scored over 50 runs six times, with only two sub-50 scores. His record in ICC events against the Blackcaps is especially impressive, amassing 217 runs at an average of 72, with a strike rate of 110. This shows his ability to perform in high-pressure situations, making him a key figure for India in crucial matches against New Zealand.

In his last two matches against New Zealand, Shreyas Iyer averages an impressive 92, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure. While Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Shubman Gill are crucial players for India in the Champions Trophy final, Shreyas Iyer could be the X-factor that makes a difference. His remarkable record against New Zealand, with six scores over 50 in eight innings, highlights his dominance over them. Given his impressive consistency, it seems Iyer is in the right form to deliver another strong performance against the Blackcaps. If he steps up in the final, it will not only bolster India’s chances but also serve as a perfect redemption for Shreyas, who has often been the key contributor when playing against New Zealand. A solid performance in the final would cement his reputation as a big-game player, making the contest even more thrilling.