WEBDESK: New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner is hopeful that his team can be “third-time lucky” against India in the Champions Trophy final. With past ICC final wins over India in the World Test Championship in 2021 and the Champions Trophy in 2000, New Zealand is aiming to replicate that success on the big stage once again.
Santner on Facing India
Speaking ahead of the final, Mitchell Santner acknowledged the challenge India presents in the Champions Trophy, especially given their experience and success in Dubai’s conditions. He emphasized that adaptability will be the key for New Zealand to overcome India’s strengths. Santner noted that India’s spinners, particularly Varun Chakravarthy, were effective against New Zealand earlier in the tournament, and the team has been working on strategies to counter them.
“He’s obviously a world-class bowler we’ve seen it here and obviously in the IPL and that little bit of mystery.
“But it was the first time some of the guys have been facing him. I think they’ll learn from the other day. If the pitch plays a similar way, it’s going to be a challenge along with all three of their other spinners.”
New Zealand’s Game Plan
Mitchell Santner stressed the importance of patience and smart decision-making on what is expected to be a slower pitch in Dubai. He believes New Zealand must build partnerships and avoid taking unnecessary risks against India’s bowling attack. The team has analyzed their past games and is looking to make necessary adjustments to ensure a strong performance.
Confident but Cautious
Despite the tough competition, Mitchell Santner remains optimistic about New Zealand’s chances. He believes that learning from their previous encounters with India will help them refine their approach for the final. With the team eager to add another ICC trophy to their collection, Santner is confident that New Zealand has what it takes to step up and deliver under pressure.
“I think we have to kind of go in with an open mind of how the pitch will play, and then adjust accordingly,” said Santner.
“Get those communications back to the groups, what you think a good score is. Yeah, I think we obviously, it could be a 300 wicket, we don’t know I guess yet, but it could also be a 250 kind of winning score.”
As the highly anticipated final approaches, all eyes will be on Mitchell Santner and his teammates as they aim to make history once again.
Read more: IND vs NZ final: Who will win the champions trophy final?
