Champions Trophy Final: India’s Probable XI and Key Match Details

The highly anticipated Champions Trophy final between India and New Zealand is set to take place today (March 9) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Both teams have completed their preparations for the decisive match.

In the previous two matches, India fielded an unchanged playing XI, and reports suggest that the team might continue with the same lineup for this crucial encounter against a strong New Zealand side. Skipper Rohit Sharma is expected to open the innings alongside Shubman Gill.

Despite suffering a minor knee injury, Virat Kohli's place in the squad appears to be secure. However, uncertainty remains, as sources indicate that last-minute changes cannot be ruled out. Shreyas Iyer, who has been in exceptional form in this tournament, will take the No. 4 batting position, followed by KL Rahul. Given this setup, Rishabh Pant is likely to remain on the bench.

India’s squad benefits from the presence of all-rounders like Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja, and Hardik Pandya, and no changes are expected in the middle order. If the team management decides to include Washington Sundar in the final XI, struggling spinner Kuldeep Yadav might have to make way for him.

Varun Chakravarthy, who made a significant impact by taking five wickets in the group-stage match against New Zealand, is expected to retain his place. The team’s only frontline pacer, Mohammed Shami, is likely to be in the XI, while Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana may remain on the bench.

Probable Indian XI for the Final:

Rohit Sharma (Captain), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (Wicketkeeper), Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav/Washington Sundar, Mohammed Shami, Varun Chakravarthy.