India’s dominant run in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has drawn comparisons to their flawless campaign in the 2023 ODI World Cup, where they reached the final undefeated. However, the Men in Blue fell short in the World Cup final against Australia, and this time, they are determined to avoid history repeating itself.
On paper, India appears stronger than New Zealand, with a squad well-suited to Dubai conditions. However, the Black Caps have a history of breaking Indian hearts in ICC knockout matches. Their recent group stage loss to India on March 2 will mean little if they pull off an upset in the final.
With both teams aiming for Champions Trophy glory, the biggest question remains—who will be the Champions Trophy 2025 Final Player of the Match? Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has made a bold prediction, picking two Indian all-rounders—Axar Patel and Ravindra Jadeja—as the top contenders. He also named Glenn Phillips as a potential game-changer for New Zealand.
Shastri’s Champions Trophy Final Prediction: Spinners Will Shine
The pitch in Dubai has been slow and spin-friendly, making it a crucial factor in the final. Given that the same surface used for the India-Pakistan match will be used again, spinners are expected to dominate. Shastri believes that an all-rounder, who can impact both batting and bowling, will decide the match.
Why Axar Patel or Ravindra Jadeja Could Win Champions Trophy 2025 Final Player of the Match
Speaking on The ICC Review, Ravi Shastri named two Indian all-rounders—Jadeja and Axar Patel—as his picks for the Champions Trophy 2025 Final Player of the Match.
“Player of the Match? I would go for an all-rounder,” Shastri said. “I’ll say Axar Patel or Ravindra Jadeja from India.”
✔ Both players have thrived with the ball in Dubai’s spin-friendly conditions.
✔ Their ability to contribute crucial runs down the order makes them match-winners.
✔ Jadeja’s exceptional fielding could make the difference in a tight game.
Jadeja has been one of India’s most consistent ICC performers, while Axar Patel has repeatedly delivered key breakthroughs. Given the conditions, either player could emerge as the Champions Trophy 2025 Final Player of the Match.
New Zealand’s X-Factor: Glenn Phillips Could Steal the Show
While India enters the final as favorites, Shastri warned that New Zealand’s Glenn Phillips could be the surprise game-changer.
“From New Zealand, I think Glenn Phillips has something up his sleeve,” Shastri said. “He might just show flashes of brilliance in the field, play a quick 40 or 50, and even sneak in a couple of wickets.”
✔ Explosive middle-order batter – Phillips has the ability to change momentum with a quick knock.
✔ Outstanding fielder – Could turn the game with a stunning catch or run-out.
✔ Handy off-spin option – Might chip in with crucial breakthroughs.
New Zealand has consistently performed in ICC knockouts, and if Phillips delivers an impactful all-round performance, he could be the Champions Trophy 2025 Final Player of the Match.
Other Key Players to Watch in the Final
While Shastri backed Jadeja, Axar, and Phillips, he also acknowledged that big names like Virat Kohli, Kane Williamson, and Rachin Ravindra will have a significant impact.
✔ Virat Kohli (India) – A proven match-winner, Kohli thrives under pressure in ICC finals.
✔ Kane Williamson (New Zealand) – A calm, composed leader, capable of anchoring the innings.
✔ Rachin Ravindra (New Zealand) – One of New Zealand’s standout all-rounders, he could influence the game with both bat and ball.
While these stars could shine, Shastri firmly believes that the Champions Trophy 2025 Final Player of the Match will be an all-rounder.
Can India Avoid Another ICC Final Heartbreak?
While India has been the best team in the tournament, they cannot afford to underestimate New Zealand. The Black Caps thrive in ICC knockout matches, and despite losing to India in the group stage, they will be eager to turn the tables in the final.
Key Factors That Will Decide the Champions Trophy 2025 Final Player of the Match
✔ How well India’s top order handles Santner and New Zealand’s spinners.
✔ Whether India can dismiss Kane Williamson early.
✔ The effectiveness of Axar Patel and Ravindra Jadeja on a spin-friendly pitch.
✔ Glenn Phillips’ potential as a middle-order game-changer.
With the Champions Trophy title on the line, India will be determined to erase the painful memories of the 2023 World Cup final loss to Australia. However, if New Zealand finds a way to disrupt India’s plans, they could once again break Indian hearts in an ICC final.
Will Shastri’s Prediction Come True?
With the Champions Trophy 2025 Final expected to be a thriller, the big question remains—who will be the Champions Trophy 2025 Final Player of the Match?
✔ Will Axar Patel or Ravindra Jadeja deliver a match-winning all-round performance for India?
✔ Can Glenn Phillips emerge as the game-changer for New Zealand?
✔ Or will a superstar like Kohli or Williamson steal the show?
The Champions Trophy 2025 Final Player of the Match award will go to the player who thrives under pressure and delivers a defining performance.
The answers await on March 9 in Dubai! 🏆🔥
