Chopra believes India should drop left-arm wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav for a tactical reason and bring in off-spinner Washington Sundar. He thinks Sundar could be India’s surprise weapon in this high-stakes final.

Why Chopra Wants Washington Sundar Over Kuldeep Yadav

Chopra pointed out that New Zealand’s batting lineup has several left-handed players, making Sundar’s off-spin a valuable asset. The cricket expert believes Sundar’s ability to bowl economically and trouble left-handers could be a game-changer for India.

On his YouTube channel, Chopra explained his reasoning:

He also reminded fans that Sundar has performed well against the Black Caps before, mentioning his previous success at venues like Pune and Wankhede.

Chopra’s Take on India’s Team Balance

While Chopra acknowledged that India’s current playing XI has been successful throughout the tournament, he argued that adding a right-arm off-spinner could give the team better balance.

Kuldeep Yadav’s Performance in Champions Trophy 2025

Kuldeep Yadav has had a decent but not outstanding tournament. In four matches, he has taken five wickets at an average of 36.60 and an economy rate of 5.01. While the Dubai conditions have favored spinners, Kuldeep has struggled to make a big impact.

In the group stage match against New Zealand, he picked up two wickets but failed to take any in the semifinal against Australia.

India vs New Zealand in ICC Knockouts

Historically, New Zealand has had the upper hand against India in ICC knockout matches. The two teams have met in four such games, with the Black Caps winning three of them. Most notably, they knocked India out of the 2019 World Cup semifinal in England.

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Interestingly, the ICC also confirmed that the hybrid model will be used for Pakistan’s matches in ICC events hosted by India, such as the Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 and the Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. Additionally, there are discussions about organizing a tri-series or a four-team T20I tournament featuring India and Pakistan to compensate for the financial impact of the hybrid model.

When is the ICC Champions Trophy 2025?

The tournament will be held from February 19 to March 9, 2025.

Which Teams Are Playing?

Eight teams will participate in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025:

• Pakistan
• India
• Australia
• England
• Afghanistan
• South Africa
• Bangladesh
• New Zealand

ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Format

• The 8 teams are divided into 2 groups of four each.
• Each team will play 3 matches in the group stage.
• The top 2 teams from each group will qualify for the semi-finals.
• The winners of the semi-finals will compete in the final.

ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Groups

Group A: India, Pakistan, New Zealand, Bangladesh
Group B: Australia, England, Afghanistan, South Africa

India vs Pakistan Match – When and Where?

The high-voltage clash between India and Pakistan is expected to take place on February 23 in Dubai. However, the ICC has yet to officially confirm the venue.

India’s Matches in ICC Champions Trophy 2025

• February 20: India vs Bangladesh
• February 23: India vs Pakistan
• March 2: India vs New Zealand

Tournament Opener

The tournament will begin on February 19, with Pakistan facing New Zealand in Karachi.

ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Schedule & Venues

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