On March 9, India and New Zealand will square off in an incredible Champions Trophy final at the Dubai International Stadium. Both teams have won their semi-final matches with ease and have been in excellent form throughout the competition. Both teams, who have some experience competing at ICC competitions, will find this difficult.
Although India defeated the Kiwi team in the current tournament’s group stage, they have typically had trouble facing the Black Caps, particularly in the ICC knockout stages. In actuality, India has lost twice and defeated the Kiwis just once in an ICC knockout match.
Kane Williamson, the top batsman for New Zealand, spoke candidly about the forthcoming India challenge, calling Rohit Sharma and company a “outstanding team” and that his team will be ready for the task.
“Look, we need to try to learn from that last game because India is a fantastic squad and they are playing extremely well. Park this game, and anything may happen in the championship game. The Times of India cited Williamson as saying, “And it was a great atmosphere last game and I’m sure it’ll be a good one again.”
Kane Williamson continued, “We’ll celebrate tonight, but we’ll be shifting our focus quickly to this next match, which is an exciting opportunity for us. The conditions are different, so it’s important that we try and take away some of those positives and be nice and clear in how we’re trying to operate come the final.”
Rachin has a really unique talent: Kane Williamson
Williamson commended Kiwi teenager Rachin Ravindra, who made his second hundred in the competition and fifth overall, after he hit his 15th ODI century (102 off 94) in his team’s 50-run victory over South Africa in the semi-final. Rachin hit 13 fours and a six to score 108 off 101. Williamson also gave the 25-year-old southpaw high marks for his knock.
It’s always a pleasure to bat with Rajin, who has a very unique gift. He plays freely and puts the team’s needs first when he goes out,” he said.