As anticipation builds for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Final, New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner underscores the significance of the showdown against India while advocating for a composed approach to the game.
Santner, addressing the media on the eve of the final, remarked, “It’s easy to say it’s just another game; it’s obviously not, but the way you approach it has to be the same. We’ve done a lot of good stuff this tournament, and we’re just trying to progress and build on the things we’ve been doing as a team.”
The New Zealand captain aims to maintain a relaxed environment, encouraging his team to play with confidence and freedom. Reflecting on the team’s performance, Santner emphasized the balanced mix of experienced and younger players who have embraced the team’s approach to cricket, both on and off the field.
An important factor in the upcoming match is the fitness of leading wicket-taker Matt Henry, who sustained a shoulder injury during the semi-final against South Africa. Santner provided an update, stating, “Matt’s going to have a bowl and see how he is, and we’ll make a call after that.”
Praising the Indian bowling attack, particularly Varun Chakaravarthy, Santner described him as “a world-class bowler” with a “little bit of mystery.” Chakaravarthy had taken five wickets against New Zealand in their group stage encounter, but Santner expressed confidence that his team has learned from that experience and is prepared for the challenge.
As both teams gear up for the final clash in Dubai, the cricketing world watches in anticipation for what promises to be an exhilarating match.
