Unbeaten India face record-setting New Zealand for Champions Trophy glory

Henry injury doubt

In front of them lies a New Zealand team hoping to win the tournament for the second time, having done so in 2000 in what was the second edition of a competition likened to a mini World Cup.

The Black Caps powered into the final by beating South Africa by 50 runs in Lahore.

But the victory came at a price with an injury to pace bowler Matt Henry after he landed on his shoulder awkwardly while taking a catch.

Henry, who took 5-42 against India in the group phase, is in a race to be fit for Sunday.

“Still a little bit unknown at this stage,” head coach Gary Stead said.

“He’s obviously pretty sore just from landing on the point of his shoulder. Hopeful he will be okay.”

Batsman Rachin Ravindra hammered 108 in New Zealand’s Champions Trophy record total of 362 against South Africa at the batting-friendly Gaddafi Stadium.

Ravindra put together 164 runs with veteran batsman Kane Williamson, who hit 102.

The left-handed Ravindra, who also bowls left-arm spin, has amassed 226 from three matches after he returned from a nasty hit to his forehead in a tri-series match in Pakistan.

The Wellington-born Ravindra is of Indian origin with his parents hailing from Bengaluru.

“We don’t quite know how the Dubai pitch is like,” said Ravindra.

“I think we pride ourselves in adapting and playing the situation in front of us, so will see what happens in the next couple of days and hope it’s a good cricket wicket.”

India might be favourites and will have much of the crowd at the 25,000-capacity Dubai stadium roaring them on, but recent history is actually with New Zealand.

They registered a surprise 3-0 Test whitewash in India in October and November last year.

The Black Caps also hold a clear advantage over India with nine wins, six losses and one no-result at global white-ball tournaments.