Credit: ICC
In the 12th match of the Champions Trophy 2025, Group B table-toppers New Zealand will square off against India at the iconic Dubai International Stadium. Both teams have qualified for the semi-final after winning their two games respectively, and they will look to be at their best before entering the knockout round. New Zealand have looked extraordinary in this competition thus far and their endeavours will be to go with a solid playing XI to extract desired results against the Men in Blue.
In this article, SportsTiger looks at New Zealand’s probable playing XI versus India for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Group A match.
Openers: Devon Conway and Will Young
Devon Conway hasn’t looked in good touch with his bat, but against India, he will be expected to play a solid knock. Will Young, who smashed his fourth ODI ton in the opening game against Pakistan and made a vital contribution to the Kiwi side’s convincing 60-run victory, will be trying to keep the momentum going with bat in hand.
Middle-order: Kane Williamson, Rachin Ravindra, and Tom Latham
Kane Williamson failed to produce solid knocks from his bat in previous both contests, but the veteran’s experience will be crucial for New Zealand to get the better of the Rohit Sharma-led India in the big game. Rachin Ravindra performed exceptionally against Bangladesh and hit his fourth ODI hundred after finding a place in the playing XI due to Daryl Mitchell's illness. The left-handed batter will strive to continue his form in the upcoming game. Tom Latham dominated bowlers in both games and he will be trying to posing a threat to India.
All-rounders: Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, and Mitchell Santner
Glenn Phillips displayed his ruthless side against Pakistan and chipped in with his 61 off 39 to New Zealand’s comprehensive win. However, the Kiwi side will want him to make fine contributions with the ball as well. Michael Bracewell exuded confidence against the Bangla side while spearheading the Kiwi team’s spin-bowling attack. Ahead of the knockouts, the 34-year-old will like to gain confidence with his performance against India. Captain Mitchell Santner has led the side from the front in the tournament so far but this time, he will be wary of India, who have looked extraordinary in the competition.
Bowlers: Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, and Will O’Rourke
Matt Henry has done a decent job for his team, and he has the potential to throw challenges towards India before the crucial knockouts. Speedster Kyle Jamieson will have to support his senior colleague to taste victory against the Men in Blue. Will O’Rourke, who made vital contributions in both wins in the tournament, will look to ask tough questions to Indian batters in Dubai.
