India vs New Zealand: Strongest India playing 11 for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final

India and New Zealand are all set to lock horns in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy final at the Dubai International Stadium on February 9. Both teams have showcased exceptional performances throughout the tournament, setting up an exciting clash for the prestigious title. The New Zealand Cricket Team showcased their domination after beating Pakistan and Bangladesh but lost to Team India in the thrilling last group stage match. However, in the semi-finals, they outbatted South Africa to reach the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy final. 

India, on the other hand, have been unbeaten throughout the tournament. One more win can help them lift their second ICC Champions Trophy title and they would be keen to get hold of that. India's run-machine Virat Kohli, once again, has stood out in the ICC tournament. He is leading the way with the bat with 217 runs to his name in 4 innings. Shreyas Iyer also has been equally brilliant. He has piled up 195 runs in 4 innings, including two half-centuries. 

As far as the bowling is concerned, Mohammed Shami leads the chart with 8 wickets in 4 innings. Despite playing just 2 games, Varun Chakravarthy has seven wickets under his belt and India would want him to dish out another match-winning performance on the day of the finals.

As the focus shifts to the blockbuster encounter on Sunday, here’s a look at India's strongest playing 11 for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final. 

India vs New Zealand: Strongest India playing 11 for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final

1: Rohit Sharma (c) 

One of the finest openers in world cricket, Rohit Sharma will be a key figure at the top of the order. Known for his elegant stroke play, impeccable timing, and ability to score big in crucial matches, Rohit’s leadership and calm demeanor provide India with a strong foundation. A strong start from the top can boost India’s chances in order to gain an advantage over the Kiwis. His experience in ICC finals and ability of handling pressure will be invaluable in this high-stakes encounter.

2: Shubman Gill

One of the most dependable youngsters in the Indian Cricket Team, Shubman Gill combines classical technique with modern aggression. His ability to play both spin and pace with ease makes him a vital asset against New Zealand’s potent bowling attack. Gill's hunger for runs and his ability to accelerate after settling in can provide India with a solid start. His ability to play according to the match situation makes him a mature batter at such a young age. 

3: Virat Kohli

The greatest batter in the history of the 50-over format, Virat Kohli has been the backbone of India’s batting lineup for a very long period of time. He thrives in high-pressure matches, which makes him a crucial asset in the ICC finals. Kohli's vast experience in ICC knockout games will be pivotal to India's fortune in the final. 

4: Shreyas Iyer

Amidst all the criticism, Shreyas Iyer has proven his mettle in the middle order, offering stability and counter-attacking ability. His skill in tackling both pace and spin makes him a crucial link between the top and lower-middle order. Iyer’s adaptability allows him to anchor the innings when needed or accelerate when the situation demands, making him a reliable asset at No. 4. He has been in top-form and will be a key player going into the final. 

5: KL Rahul

KL Rahul has proved why the team management has trusted him over Rishabh Pant in the playing XI for the wicket-keeper slot. Batting at number five, Rahul has played a crucial hand lower down the order. His vital contributions have helped the team win crucial games against Australia and New Zealand. In four innings, he has 106 runs to his name thus far in the tournament. 

6: Axar Patel

One of the most underrated all-rounders in Indian Cricket, Axar Patel brings balance to the team with his left-arm spin and handy lower-order batting. His economical bowling in the middle overs, coupled with his ability to chip in with crucial wickets, makes him a strong asset. With the bat, Axar has shown his ability to play impactful cameos, adding depth to India’s batting lineup.

7: Ravindra Jadeja

One of the most dependable all-rounders in the world, Ravindra Jadeja’s all-round abilities make him indispensable to the Indian team. With the ball, he is known for his accuracy, sharp turn, and ability to break partnerships. As a batter, he is a dependable finisher who can accelerate the scoring rate in the final overs. Additionally, his world-class fielding provides India with a significant edge in the field.

8: Hardik Pandya

One of the most genuine fast-bowling all-rounder, Hardik Pandya is a valuable asset for the Indian playing XI. His ability to hit powerful sixes in the death overs makes him a dangerous batter, while his medium-fast bowling offers crucial breakthroughs, especially on flat tracks. As a leader on the field, Hardik’s aggressive mindset adds energy to the team.

9: Kuldeep Yadav

India’s chinaman spinner, Kuldeep Yadav brings variety to India’s bowling attack. His ability to deceive batters with his flight, turn, and googlies makes him a wicket-taking option in the middle overs. Against a team like New Zealand, which has struggled against quality spin in the past, Kuldeep’s presence could be a game-changer.

10: Varun Chakravarthy

There is no denying that Varun Chakravarthy will be an X-factor in the final. With his ability to bowl carrom balls, off-breaks, and leg-breaks, he can trouble the New Zealand batters, especially on a turning Dubai pitch. His unorthodox style makes him a tough bowler to read, and his presence adds unpredictability to India's bowling attack.

11: Mohammed Shami

India's only fast-bowling option, Mohammed Shami will lead the bowling attack with his experience, skill, and raw pace. His ability to generate movement with the new ball and execute lethal yorkers in the death overs makes him a key weapon against New Zealand’s batting lineup. Shami’s knack for striking early and delivering breakthroughs under pressure will be vital in India’s quest for the trophy.