Champions Trophy Final: New Zealand Wins Toss, Elects to Bat First Against India

Dubai (The Uttam Hindu): In the much-awaited final match of the Champions Trophy 2025 between India and New Zealand in Dubai today, New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner won the toss and decided to bat first. After winning the toss, Santner announced a change in the playing eleven. Fast bowler Matt Henry has been ruled out of the final due to injury and Nathan Smith has been included in the team in his place. Indian captain Rohit Sharma, commenting after the toss, said that he does not mind batting first or later, as the team has practised in both conditions in Dubai over the last few days. Sharma confirmed that India will take the field with an unchanged playing XI, meaning they will play with four spinners. Both teams are eager to win this prestigious trophy. New Zealand will aim to win their first Champions Trophy in 25 years while India will look to win the title for the third time. Cricket fans can expect a thrilling encounter as the two strong teams face off at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

ND vs NZ: Both teams

New Zealand: Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham (wicketkeeper), Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner (captain), Kyle Jamieson, William O'Rourke, Nathan Smith.

India: Rohit Sharma (captain), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Axar Patel, KL Rahul (wicketkeeper), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Shami, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakravarthy.