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"India Has Played All Their Games Here": Mitchell Santner on Dubai Pitch Challenge Ahead of Champions Trophy Final
New Zealand will face India in the final of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 on March 9 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium (DICS). Ahead of the much-anticipated clash, Kiwi captain Mitchell Santner has admitted that India holds an advantage due to their familiarity with the Dubai pitch but affirmed that his team is prepared for a “scrap” in the final.
India’s Pitch Advantage
Santner highlighted the fact that India has played all their matches in Dubai, giving them crucial experience on the slow surface. “They’ve played all their games here in Dubai and know that surface. Obviously, the surface will dictate a little bit of how we want to operate. It might be a little bit slower than what we got in Lahore. It might be more of a scrap, but we’re down to scrap,” he said after arriving in Dubai with his squad.
New Zealand, however, has already faced India in the group stage, albeit in a match that had little consequence. The Kiwis lost that encounter by 44 runs, but Santner believes that experience will help them prepare better for the final. “We’ve come against a good side. I think we’ll be better for the run we had the other day against them. We’ve had a bit of a roll on. Hopefully, it continues,” he added.
TRENDING
New Zealand’s journey to the final has been hectic, involving travel between Pakistan and Dubai in a short span for their last group match, semifinal, and now the final. Despite the demanding schedule, Santner remains optimistic about his team’s adaptability. “It’s just the general feel of this tournament, moving around a lot. It’s all part of the challenge. I think we’ve been to every place here,” he said.
The left-arm spinner also emphasized the importance of mental readiness for the final, saying, “Obviously, in Pakistan and Dubai. I think the guys understand it’s part of it these days. As long as you’re ready to go for the game, it’s fine.”
Road to the Final
India has been in dominant form throughout the tournament, making their way to the final with convincing performances. Their familiarity with the conditions in Dubai could prove crucial in the high-pressure match. New Zealand, on the other hand, will be looking to break their ICC title drought and deliver a strong performance on the big day.
With both teams eager to lift the coveted trophy, the final promises to be a thrilling contest at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Cricket fans worldwide will be watching closely to see if India’s pitch familiarity gives them the edge or if New Zealand can turn the tables in the ultimate showdown of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
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