Introduction
The much awaited ICC Champions Trophy Final is here, and fans of cricket worldwide are eagerly waiting to see if India or New Zealand will pick up the reputed trophy. Both teams have displayed extraordinary performances throughout the tournament, establishing an thrilling closing. But who has the upper hand? Let's analyze and predict the possible winner.
India's strength and prominent players
India has been one of the most prominent teams in the tournament, claiming a combined batting lineup and a strong bowling attack. Some of the major factors in his favor include:
Batting Firepower: With top-order batsmen like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Shubman Gill, India has a solid batting foundation. KL provides their middle order stability and finishing capacity including Rahul and Hardik Pandya.
Spin supremacy: The spin pair of Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav can trouble New Zealand batsmen, especially in the important middle over.
Pace Attack: The speed and accuracy of Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammad Siraj makes them fatal against any batting lineup.
Big-Match experience: India has a history of performing well in high pressure sports, which have many ICC trophies under their belt.
New Zealand's strength and prominent player
New Zealand is known for its stability and ability to punch above its weight in the ICC tournament. Why can they pick up the trophy here:
Balanced Squad: From the front with Kane Williamson, the New Zealand's batting lineup is well balanced, in the top form with Devon Conway, Rachin Rabindra, and Derryl Michelle.
Paes Powerhouse: Trent Bault, Tim Southee and Lockey Ferguson can challenge India's batsmen with swing and pace.
All-rounders Impact: Players like Mitchell Santner and Rachin Ravindra make valuable contribution in both batting and bowling.
Strong Fielding Unit: New Zealand is one of the best fielding sides in the world, which can make a difference in a close competition.
Head-to-head in ICC events
New Zealand has placed an upper hand over India in the ICC knockout matches in recent years, including the 2019 World Cup semi -finals and the 2021 World Test Championship Finals. However, India has been in a sensational form and wants to change that story.
To see the main battle
Virat Kohli vs Trent Bault:
Kohli's ability to handle the left hand speed will be tested against the swing of the bowlt.
Rohit Sharma vs Tim Southee:
Rohit's aggressive approach against the new ball will be an important fight.
Ken Williamson vs. Jasprit Bumrah:
Williamson's composition against Yorker of Bumrah may be decisive.
Jadeja vs Rachin Rabindra:
Two top all-rounders can play an important role in shaping the game.
