The Indian team will be against New Zealand in Match 12 of the Champions Trophy 2025 on Sunday, March 2 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Although both sides have already qualified for the semi-finals, this game is very important for deciding their future opponents.
Champions Trophy Semifinalists Decided
With semi-final places already booked, the victor of this encounter will play Australia, while the defeated side will play South Africa in the knockout phase. Up to this point, all four semi-finalists have dominated their opponents, with a clear difference in quality between them and the rest of Group A. India and New Zealand have especially been a class apart.
Also Read: Champions Trophy: Australia & South Africa Caught In BIG Venue Confusion For Semi-Final
IND Vs NZ: Weather Forecast
The temperature will be around 25°C on Sunday, according to Accuweather and there are no chances if rain. The pitch behavior has been unpredictable, and thus the toss is a puzzle for the captains. The pitch slowed down heavily in the second innings in India’s game against Bangladesh. But against Pakistan, the pitch surprisingly accelerated in the evening. Also, dew has not been of consequence, thereby making it difficult to decide if one should bat or bowl first.
While India and New Zealand prepare for this pivotal match, both sides will seek to tighten their approach leading into the semi-finals, bringing momentum from the knockout stage.
Also Read: Champions Trophy: Shreyas Iyer Surprises Net Bowler With A Generous Gift Ahead Of IND Vs NZ Match
Dubai Pitch Report & Conditions
In contrast to the batting-friendly pitches in Pakistan, the Dubai pitch has been challenging for batters, especially after the ball becomes older and softer. The spinners and seamers who can make good use of variations, including slower balls, have been successful. The teams batting first will have to find the right balance between aggression and caution, which Pakistan and Bangladesh were unable to do when they struggled in their first innings here.
