Dubai-Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has picked India as the favourites in Sunday’s Champions Trophy summit clash against New Zealand but pointed out that the advantage will be miniscule, given that the Black Caps are a formidable side.
India, who have played all their matches here, stormed into the final with an all-win record, and defeated Australia in the semifinal.
New Zealand, who finished second behind India in Group A after losing their league match, secured their spot in the final with a one-sided win over South Africa in the second semifinal in Lahore.
“If there’s one team that can beat India, it’s New Zealand,” Shastri said in ‘The ICC Review’. “So India start as favourites but only just,” he said referring to the final, which will be a rematch of the 2000 Champions Trophy title clash, where New Zealand triumphed by four wickets in Nairobi.
The 62-year-old, who has seen both teams evolve over the years, picked four players from the New Zealand squad who could make a difference in the high-stakes final.
He singled out Rachin Ravindra, calling him “immensely talented”, Kane Williamson for his “stability and calmness like a saint”, and captain Mitchell Santner, whom he described as an “intelligent” leader who can influence the game alongside Glenn Phillips, who could be the X-factor for the team.
Shastri also highlighted Virat Kohli’s current form as a potential game-changer, while also acknowledging Williamson’s ability to seize crucial moments.
“Now (on) current form, Kohli. When these guys get hot and you let them get their first 10 runs, then they’re trouble. Whether it’s Williamson, whether it’s Kohli,” Shastri said.
“So from New Zealand, I would say Williamson. To an extent, Ravindra, he is a fabulous young player.
“But these guys when they smell the coffee and you let them, in a final, get to that 10-15, then they’re doubly dangerous.”
Ravindra, at just 25, has already accumulated five centuries in ICC 50-over tournaments — the youngest to achieve the feat.
Apart from his batting prowess, former skipper Williamson’s leadership and calm demeanour make him a vital asset for New Zealand in the final.
The veteran has been in red-hot form with scores of 81 against India and 102 in the semifinal versus South Africa.
Shastri also made special mention of Santner, who has impressed in his first ICC event as New Zealand captain.
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