Dubai pitch used for India vs Pakistan clash to host the final, as rising temperatures favor spin-friendly conditions.
March 8, 2025: India vs New Zealand Champions Trophy Final Pitch Revealed – Here’s Its Pakistan Connection
Dubai’s semi-used surface, previously deployed for India vs Pakistan, selected for title clash amid rising spin-friendly conditions.
With just two days to go before the ICC Champions Trophy final between India and New Zealand, the pitch selection for the grand finale in Dubai has been finalized—and it comes with a Pakistan connection.
According to a Times of India report, the same pitch that hosted the high-profile India vs Pakistan group stage clash on February 23 will be used for the final on March 9.
Why Was This Pitch Chosen?
The Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) had a strict two-week rest policy for pitches during the tournament, ensuring adequate recovery time after hosting the ILT20. However, with limited fresh surfaces available, the final will now be played on what is being called a “tired surface.”
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An official familiar with the developments explained:
“If you look at the pitches used in the Champions Trophy, the curators and ground staff ensured they got at least two weeks of rest. Even when the ILT20 was underway, the pitch used for the India vs Bangladesh game was preserved for two weeks before match day. A similar approach was followed for all other fixtures.”
However, the demand of the Champions Trophy schedule and prior ILT20 matches left no choice but to reuse the India-Pakistan pitch for the final.
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How Will the Pitch Play?
Spin to Dominate as Heat Intensifies
- Dubai’s rising temperatures are expected to dry out the pitch further, making it even more spin-friendly.
- The pitch has been covered in the days leading up to the final, preventing additional wear but allowing it to settle for slower turn.
- Expect spinners to play a crucial role, with teams possibly leaning on their spin attack over pace options.
Final Pitch Inspection on Saturday
The first official look at the surface will be revealed on Saturday, but with conditions favoring low bounce, slower turns, and batting challenges, the final could see a gripping contest between spin and stroke play.
With the India vs Pakistan pitch set to decide the Champions Trophy winner, the stage is set for an intriguing battle on March 9 in Dubai.
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