India will face off against New Zealand in the Champions Trophy final on Sunday in Dubai, marking what could be the last hurrah for veteran stars Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. The 36-year-old Kohli and skipper Rohit, 37, have come under pressure to perform, with speculation swirling over when they will retire following lean patches in Test cricket.
Despite this, India are favourites going into the final, having won all four of their matches at the eight-nation tournament, including beating New Zealand by 44 runs in the group phase. They boast a world-class spin attack and have played all their games in Dubai, where batting is tough.
Rohit’s side has been lauded for handing the team quick starts to build totals, while Kohli silenced his critics with an unbeaten 100 against arch-rivals Pakistan, followed by a match-winning 84 against world champions Australia. India are looking to win the Champions Trophy for a record third time and have confidence sky-high.
However, New Zealand has a clear advantage over India in global white-ball tournaments, holding nine wins, six losses and one no-result. The Black Caps powered into the final by beating South Africa by 50 runs, but Matt Henry is a doubt with an injury to his shoulder.
Rachin Ravindra, who has hammered 108 against South Africa, will look to continue his form against India. Despite being from Indian origin, New Zealand has historically had success against India, including a surprise 3-0 Test whitewash in October and November last year. The stage is set for an exciting final on Sunday.
Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1896385