India and New Zealand are set to lock horns in the 2025 Champions Trophy final at the Dubai International Stadium on March 9. As both teams gear up for the title decider, let’s revisit their last ICC ODI knockout encounter—a fierce semi-final at the 2023 ODI World Cup in Mumbai.
Kohli scripted history with another ton
Batting first at the Wankhede Stadium, India’s top order delivered a masterclass. Virat Kohli created history, as he surpassed Sachin Tendulkar’s record for most ODI centuries, reaching his 50th ODI hundred in a knock which included 9 boundaries and 2 maximums. He was accompanied by Shreyas Iyer, who blazed his way to a century in just 80 balls. Openers Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill also made valuable contributions, setting the platform for India’s huge score of 397/4 in 50 overs.
Shami’s seven-wicket haul crushed New Zealand’s hopes
While chasing 398, New Zealand’s innings was anchored by Daryl Mitchell, who played a fighting innings of 134. Captain Kane Williamson also added a crucial 69, keeping the Kiwis in the game. However, the night belonged to Mohammed Shami, who delivered a devastating spell, taking 7 wickets for 57 runs in 9.5 overs. His ability to strike at key moments shattered New Zealand’s hopes, bundling them out and handing India a 70-run victory.
Now, two years later, the stakes are just as high as India and New Zealand meet once again in an ICC ODI final. Will history repeat itself, or can the Black Caps turn the tide? The world will find out on March 9 in Dubai.
