India will take on New Zealand in the ICC Champions Trophy final on March 9 at the Dubai International Stadium. So far, India has remained unbeaten in the tournament. Meanwhile, New Zealand has displayed excellent form under Mitchell Santner’s leadership. This highly anticipated match will be a rematch of the 2000 final, where New Zealand claimed victory. Furthermore, India will seek redemption for past defeats, including the 2019 World Cup semifinal and the 2021 World Test Championship final.
Shreyas Iyer’s Strong Record Against New Zealand
Iyer has consistently delivered outstanding performances against New Zealand in ODIs. In nine matches, he has accumulated 563 runs in eight innings. Notably, he averages 70.37 and maintains a strike rate of 100.71. Additionally, he has registered two centuries and four fifties, with a top score of 105.
One of his most memorable innings came during the 2023 World Cup semifinal at Wankhede Stadium. During this match, he smashed 105 runs off 70 balls, including four boundaries and eight sixes. Significantly, he reached his century in just 67 balls, making it the fastest in a World Cup knockout match.
Moreover, Iyer has also impressed in Test cricket against New Zealand. On his debut in November 2021, he scored a remarkable century.
Consistency Across Formats
Overall, Iyer has dominated New Zealand across formats. In 23 innings, he has scored 990 runs at an average of 47.14. Furthermore, he has recorded three centuries and six fifties, with a highest score of 105*.
In the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy, Iyer has been one of India’s best batters. So far, he has scored 195 runs in four matches. Not only does he average 48.75, but he also has a strike rate of 79.91. Additionally, he has hit two half-centuries, with a top score of 79.
Similarly, his form in 2024 has been impressive. In seven ODIs, he has amassed 376 runs at an average of 53.71. His strike rate stands at 96.16, and he has recorded four half-centuries, with 79 as his highest score.
Given his track record, Iyer’s performance in the final will be crucial. His ability to balance caution with aggression makes him a key player for India. Therefore, he could play a defining role in securing the ICC Champions Trophy title.
