Mitchell Santner Prepares for Varun Chakaravarthy’s Challenge in ICC Champions Trophy Final
As New Zealand gears up for the ICC Champions Trophy final against India, captain Mitchell Santner has acknowledged the significant threat posed by India’s enigmatic spinner, Varun Chakaravarthy. Chakaravarthy’s recent performance against the Kiwis, where he took five wickets for just 42 runs, has left a lasting impression on the New Zealand squad.
Learning from Past Encounters
Reflecting on Chakaravarthy’s effectiveness, Santner emphasized the importance of learning from their previous encounter. “I think guys will be better for the run against Varun. He’s obviously a world-class bowler,” he stated. Santner highlighted Chakaravarthy’s quick arm-ball that had previously uprooted his off-stump, showcasing the spinner’s potential to turn the match in India’s favor.
Concerns Over Matt Henry’s Fitness
Adding to the tension, New Zealand faces uncertainty regarding their leading pacer, Matt Henry, who is currently the tournament’s highest wicket-taker. Henry sustained a shoulder injury during the semifinal against South Africa. Santner mentioned that a decision on Henry’s fitness would be made after a training session, underscoring the importance of having all key players available.
A Spin Attack to be Reckoned With
Despite concerns over Henry’s fitness, Santner expressed confidence in the variety of spinners at his disposal. The New Zealand side boasts a potent mix of left-arm and off-spin options, including himself, Michael Bracewell, Rachin Ravindra, and Glenn Phillips. Santner noted, “That’s probably the most spinners we’ve had. Everyone offers something different with the ball.”
Final Thoughts
As New Zealand prepares for this crucial match, Santner remains optimistic. “Hopefully, we’ll be third time lucky,” he said, referring to past successes against India in ICC finals. With a formidable spin attack and a determination to learn from previous experiences, the Kiwis are set to face India in what promises to be an exhilarating climax to the tournament.
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