Despite experiencing unfavorable coin tosses throughout the 2025 Champions Trophy, the Indian cricket team has demonstrated exceptional form, aiming for their first title since 2013. Playing predominantly at the Dubai International Stadium, India has successfully defended their score in one match and chased down targets in three others. Under the leadership of Rohit Sharma, the team has excelled in all aspects of the game, securing their place in the final against New Zealand in Dubai this Sunday.
Here is a SWOT analysis of the Indian team as they prepare for the crucial final against New Zealand.
Strengths: India’s batting lineup has been remarkably potent. Rohit Sharma has displayed glimpses of his aggressive style, while Shubman Gill has maintained excellent form. Virat Kohli has been in outstanding touch, highlighted by his century against Pakistan and 84 runs in the semi-final against Australia.
Shreyas Iyer has effectively adapted to the slower pitches in Dubai and is considered a top middle-order batsman in the tournament. Axar Patel, KL Rahul, and Hardik Pandya have also contributed significantly to strong finishes in India’s batting innings. Furthermore, India’s bowling attack, spearheaded by Mohammed Shami and Varun Chakaravarthy, has given them an edge.
Weaknesses: Although India defeated New Zealand in their Group A match in Dubai by 44 runs, they are mindful of the challenge posed by the Blackcaps. New Zealand has previously defeated India in significant ICC knockout matches, including the 2021 World Test Championship Final, the 2019 ODI World Cup semi-final, and the 2000 Champions Trophy Final.
Moreover, having already played in Dubai against India, New Zealand will be better prepared to strategize against Rohit and his team in the final. Key New Zealand players like Kane Williamson and Rachin Ravindra, alongside captain Mitchell Santner, are in excellent form, posing a significant threat to India if they perform strongly.
Opportunities: India’s last Champions Trophy victory was in 2013 in England. Since then, they have been seeking a major 50-over ICC tournament win. Winning the Champions Trophy in Dubai would mark another significant ICC trophy for Rohit Sharma as captain, following their T20 World Cup win in the USA and West Indies last year.
A victory would also be a major achievement for coach Gautam Gambhir, adding a significant win to his coaching record. It would also indicate that the Indian team is progressing well in their preparations for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Threats: If the final is played on a pitch previously used in India’s matches, New Zealand’s spin bowlers, including Santner, Michael Bracewell, Glenn Phillips, and Rachin Ravindra, will be highly effective, making batting difficult for India.
If Matt Henry is fit to play, he could be a crucial threat to India, reminiscent of his performance in the 2019 ODI World Cup semi-final and his 5-42 in the Group A game. His ability to generate seam movement on a slow Dubai pitch positions him as a key obstacle between India and the trophy.
