New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner believes the slow pitch in Dubai will make for a closely fought ICC Champions Trophy final against India on Sunday.
India, playing all their matches at the Dubai International Stadium due to political tensions with Pakistan, will be more accustomed to the conditions. Meanwhile, New Zealand, fresh off their semi-final win over South Africa in Lahore, will have to adjust quickly to Dubai’s spin-friendly surface.
Santner acknowledged the challenge of playing in unfamiliar conditions, saying:
“Finals cricket is different, but for us, what we have been doing to get to this point has been good. India has played all their games in Dubai and knows the surface well.”
He expects a low-scoring battle on the slower Dubai pitch, contrasting with the high-scoring games in Pakistan, where New Zealand posted a Champions Trophy record 362-6 against South Africa in the semi-final.
Despite the frequent travel between Pakistan and the UAE, Santner insisted that his team has taken it in stride:
“We have been to every place, into Pakistan and Dubai. The guys understand that it’s part of the challenge these days.”
New Zealand’s Key Performers & Preparation
The tri-series win in Pakistan, featuring South Africa as the third team, helped New Zealand’s players hit top form ahead of the tournament.
- Rachin Ravindra has been a standout, scoring two centuries in the Champions Trophy, including 108 against South Africa in the semi-final.
- Kane Williamson also found form at the right time, scoring 102 in the same match.
Santner emphasized that the team is motivated and ready for the final:
“We have had a bit of a roll-on and hopefully it continues. The boys are excited for the challenge ahead.”
Can New Zealand Overcome India’s Spin Threat?
With India’s spin-heavy attack thriving in Dubai, New Zealand will have to adapt quickly if they want to lift their second Champions Trophy title.
Will the Black Caps find a way to counter India’s advantage, or will Rohit Sharma lead India to a historic third Champions Trophy victory? Sunday’s final will decide it all!
