As India prepares for their highly anticipated Champions Trophy Final against New Zealand on March 9 in Dubai, all eyes are on the pitch conditions and which side will benefit more from the surface. While many believe India holds an edge due to their familiarity with Dubai’s playing conditionshaving played all their matches at the venueNew Zealand possesses enough firepower to make an impact as well.

According to multiple reports, the pitch for the final has already been selected, and it is expected to be a ‘semi-fresh’ surface. This pitch was previously used during India’s group-stage clash against arch-rivals Pakistan, adding an interesting layer to the contest. Notably, the Dubai International Cricket Stadium has 10 pitches curated by the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB), offering varied conditions for different matches.

Champions Trophy: Full Coverage

How the Pitch Played in India vs Pakistan

If reports are accurate and the final is played on the same pitch as the India vs Pakistan encounter, then India will have an advantage in terms of familiarity. In that match, India secured a dominant 6-wicket win, with their bowlers extracting assistance for both spin and pace. Kuldeep Yadav’s 3/40 and Hardik Pandya’s 2/31 proved crucial in restricting Pakistan to 241 runs.

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With the bat, Virat Kohli played a masterful chase, scoring a century to lead India to victory in just 42.3 overs. However, other Indian batters showed mixed form, which could provide New Zealand an opening. The Black Caps have quality spin options in Michael Bracewell and Mitchell Santner, along with pace threats Matt Henry and Will O’Rourke, who could exploit any uncertainties in India’s batting lineup.

Since the India-Pakistan match was played 14 days ago, groundsmen will have ample time to prepare the pitch afresh for the grand finale, ensuring an exciting contest between two of the world’s best teams.