Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has tipped India as the favourites in Sunday’s Champions Trophy final against New Zealand, but acknowledged that the margin of advantage is minimal, given the Black Caps’ formidable track record in ICC tournaments.
India, unbeaten throughout the tournament, stormed into the final after defeating Australia in the semifinal. New Zealand, who finished second in Group A behind India, secured their spot with a dominant victory over South Africa in Lahore.
“If Any Team Can Beat India, It’s New Zealand” – Shastri
Speaking on ‘The ICC Review’, Shastri emphasized that New Zealand remains a strong contender.
“India start as favourites, but only just. If there’s one team that can beat India, it’s New Zealand.”
The final will be a rematch of the 2000 Champions Trophy final, where New Zealand triumphed by four wickets in Nairobi.
Key Players to Watch Out For
Shastri highlighted four New Zealand players who could have a decisive impact:
🔹 Rachin Ravindra – “Immensely talented, with exceptional fluency at the crease.”
🔹 Kane Williamson – “Brings stability and a calmness akin to a saint.”
🔹 Mitchell Santner – “An intelligent leader with great tactical awareness.”
🔹 Glenn Phillips – “Could be the X-factor with his all-round abilities.”
For India, Shastri pointed out Virat Kohli’s current form as a potential game-changer, while also acknowledging Williamson’s ability to seize crucial moments.
“When these guys get going, they are trouble. If you let them get their first 10-15 runs, they become doubly dangerous.”
Rachin Ravindra: A Rising Star
At just 25, Ravindra has already smashed five centuries in ICC 50-over tournaments, making him the youngest to achieve this milestone.
“I love the way he moves in the crease. His fluency is incredible. He’s either forward, back, cutting, sweeping—he plays quicks well and has a strong temperament.”
Williamson’s Leadership and Composure
Shastri lauded Williamson’s impact, especially his recent performances: 81 against India and 102 against South Africa.
“He’s like a saint, a sage meditating. He has a no-nonsense approach and supreme footwork, much like Joe Root and Kohli.”
Santner’s Captaincy and Glenn Phillips’ X-Factor
Shastri credited Santner for leading New Zealand efficiently in his first ICC event as captain.
“Captaincy suits him. He’s a smart reader of the game, and it adds an edge to his batting and bowling.”
He also highlighted Glenn Phillips as a potential Player of the Match, given his ability to change games with both bat and ball.
Shastri’s Player of the Match Predictions
🔹 India – Axar Patel or Ravindra Jadeja (all-round performance)
🔹 New Zealand – Glenn Phillips (“Could deliver a match-turning cameo or take crucial wickets.”)
With both teams stacked with match-winners, Sunday’s Champions Trophy final promises to be an electrifying encounter. 🏆🔥
