Ravi Shastri Identifies New Zealand’s Biggest Threats to India in Champions Trophy Final

Ravi Shastri Identifies New Zealand’s Biggest Threats to India in Champions Trophy Final

New Zealand’s X-Factors: Shastri’s Take on the Final Showdown

As India gears up for the much-anticipated ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final, former India head coach Ravi Shastri has pinpointed three key players from the New Zealand squad who could make life difficult for Rohit Sharma’s men. Speaking on The ICC Review, Shastri emphasized the impact that Rachin Ravindra, Kane Williamson, and Mitchell Santner could have in the high-stakes final, calling them pivotal to New Zealand’s chances of lifting the trophy.

Rachin Ravindra: A Young Sensation in the Making

At just 25 years old, Rachin Ravindra has already carved a name for himself on the global stage. His ability to perform under pressure, especially in ICC tournaments, has made him one of the most promising batters in world cricket. The young left-hander has an impressive record in high-profile tournaments, having already amassed five centuries in men’s 50-over ICC events an achievement that underlines his temperament and skill.

Shastri heaped praise on Ravindra, citing his fluency at the crease and technical prowess. “I just like the way he moves in the crease,” Shastri remarked. “There’s an element of fluency, which is fabulous to see. He’s either forward, he’s back, he’ll cut, he’ll sweep, and he plays the quicks well. His temperament is solid.”

Ravindra’s recent century in the semi-final against South Africa only reinforced his reputation as a player who thrives in knockout games. If India wants to control the match, neutralizing Ravindra early will be key.

Kane Williamson: The Calm, Composed Leader

A seasoned campaigner and one of the most respected figures in world cricket, Kane Williamson’s importance to New Zealand’s batting lineup cannot be overstated. His ability to anchor the innings and play match-defining knocks makes him a crucial factor in the final. Having already produced stellar performances against top sides like India and South Africa in this tournament, Williamson will be eager to lead from the front.

Shastri compared Williamson’s footwork and temperament to some of the modern greats. “He’s very stable, and there’s an element of calmness about him. He’s like a saint, a sage, just sitting, meditating. When people move in the crease well like Joe Root or Virat Kohli it’s a joy to watch. He is that kind of batter.”

With Williamson’s leadership and ability to deliver under pressure, India’s bowlers will need to be at their absolute best to unsettle him early in the innings.

Mitchell Santner: The All-Rounder’s Growing Influence

While New Zealand has traditionally been known for its strong pace attack, left-arm spinner Mitchell Santner has emerged as a game-changer with both the ball and the bat. Leading the team for the first time in an ICC event, Santner has shown exceptional composure, guiding New Zealand to yet another final.

Shastri believes that the captaincy has elevated Santner’s game. “He’s an intelligent man, and I think this captaincy suits him. It adds that extra edge to him as a batter, as a bowler, as a cricketer.”

Santner’s ability to deceive batters with his variations, combined with his lower-order batting prowess, gives New Zealand an added advantage. India’s batters will need to be wary of his control in the middle overs, where he has the potential to break partnerships and shift momentum.

The Glenn Phillips Factor: An Unpredictable Game-Changer

While Shastri focused on three key threats, he also gave a special mention to Glenn Phillips, a player known for his unpredictability and ability to turn a game on its head. “He might just show flashes of brilliance in the field. He might come and smash a cameo of 40-50 and probably surprise you by taking a wicket or two.”

Phillips has built a reputation as an impact player who can accelerate the scoring rate and deliver in pressure situations. If he gets going, he could provide the late flourish New Zealand needs to set or chase a daunting total.

India’s Plan to Counter New Zealand’s Threats

India will need a well-rounded strategy to tackle New Zealand’s core players. Their bowling attack, led by Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami, will have to bring their A-game to neutralize the likes of Ravindra and Williamson early in the innings. Meanwhile, the middle-order batters, including Virat Kohli and Shubman Gill, must be prepared for Santner’s deceptive spin.

New Zealand’s success in ICC tournaments has often been attributed to their ability to play as a cohesive unit rather than relying on individual brilliance. However, if India can effectively counter the threats identified by Shastri, they stand a great chance of clinching the Champions Trophy title.

A High-Stakes Final Awaits

The Champions Trophy 2025 final is set to be a battle of nerves, skills, and strategies. While India enters as the world’s top-ranked ODI side, New Zealand’s reputation as giant killers in ICC events makes them a formidable opponent. With players like Rachin Ravindra, Kane Williamson, and Mitchell Santner leading the charge for the Black Caps, India will need to be at their absolute best to secure victory.

As cricket fans worldwide gear up for this thrilling encounter, all eyes will be on how these key players perform on the grand stage. Will Shastri’s predictions hold true, or will India find a way to dominate their opponents?