New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner is optimistic about the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy final against India, which is scheduled to take place in Dubai on Sunday March 4, 2025. Despite the group-stage loss to India, skipper Mitchell Santner believes the Kiwis can learn positives from this match as they gear up for the final clash.
New Zealand seal final spot with win over South Africa
On Wednesday, New Zealand sealed their place in the final after a sensational 50-run win against South Africa at the Gaddafi Stadium. Kane Williamson (102) and Rachin Ravindra (108) batted brilliantly to put on a 164-run partnership and lay the foundation for a mammoth 360-run score.
Daryl Mitchell (49) and Glenn Phillips (49*) added the finishing touches with blistering cameos. With the ball, Santner led from the front, taking 3/43, while Rachin Ravindra (1/20) and Glenn Phillips (2/27) picked up crucial breakthroughs to restrict South Africa from chasing the target.
Mitchell Santner reflects on last encounter with India
Despite losing to India by 44 runs in the group stage, Santner is confident his side will learn from that experience. Speaking at the post-match presentation, he emphasised the importance of understanding situations and improving their strategies.
“Being there and putting them under pressure at times last game was good for us,” said Santner. “We got a look at them, and they got a look at us. Our big boys bowled extremely well, and winning the toss might be nice as well.”
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Matt Henry injury update
New Zealand suffered a potential setback in the semi-finals when pacer Matt Henry injured his shoulder while attempting a catch in the 29th over. He left the field for some time for treatment but returned later to bowl the 44th over, in which he took 2 wickets for 43 runs. Giving an update on Henry’s condition, Santner said, “We have to wait and see how Matt Henry’s shoulder is. It’s a bit sore, but we will assess it in the coming days.”
Kiwis set for high-stakes clash against Men in Blue
With New Zealand and India gearing up for a thrilling final, the Blackcaps will aim to leverage their experience from the group-stage match. Having a balanced team with experienced players and dynamic all-rounders, New Zealand are determined to challenge India and create history in Dubai. New Zealand, who won the Champions Trophy against India in 2000, are now on the threshold of their second ICC ODI title, ending a 25-year drought.