The ICC Champions Trophy final between India and New Zealand is currently underway in Dubai. India, led by captain Rohit Sharma, is considered the favorite due to advantageous conditions and familiarity with the playing field, as they didn't have to travel during the tournament. New Zealand, captained by Mitchell Santner, is aiming to overcome past close calls in major finals, including losses in the 2015 and 2019 50-over World Cup finals, and the T20 equivalent in late 2021.
New Zealand is concerned about the fitness of their key pacer, Matt Henry, who sustained a shoulder injury in the semi-final against South Africa. Henry, the tournament's leading wicket-taker, will undergo a last-minute fitness test to determine his participation. Additionally, New Zealand is preparing to face India's "mystery spinner," Varun Chakravarthy, who took 5-42 in their group match in Dubai.
India's opener, Shubman Gill, emphasized that while the team is eager to secure the Champions Trophy title, they are not letting desperation affect their performance. The team feels more balanced and less overwhelmed by big matches, especially after breaking an 11-year global title drought with their Twenty20 World Cup win in the West Indies last year. India's strong batting lineup, including Virat Kohli's return to form, adds to their confidence.
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