India and New Zealand are all prepped up for a thrilling Champions Trophy final which will be held at Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Both teams have delivered outstanding performances in the tournament, and they have earned their rightful places in the grand finale. But only one will be crowned the winner and take home the highly prestigious trophy.
Matt Henry’s Availability Doubtful
There are doubts regarding New Zealand’s top pacer – Matt Henry, who has 10 wickets, leads the wickets column for New Zealand in this tournament. In the semifinal match against South Africa, Matt sprained his shoulder when attempting to catch, but then continued bowling two overs during the same game. With Henry’s availability in doubt, captain Mitchell Santner has given an update on his condition, recognizing that playing India, particularly in a high-stakes final, will be a tall order. Santner also highlighted the need to counter Indian mystery spinner Varun Chakaravarthy, who tore through the Kiwis in their group-stage match with a five-wicket haul.
Santner On Matt Henry’s Injury
“So we’ll be going across the road and training after this. And Matt’s going to have a bowl just to see how he is. Yeah, and then I guess we’ll make a call after that,” Santner said on Matt Henry in the pre-match press conference
India, A Challenging Side For New Zealand
“I think, obviously, having the run against India a few days ago will definitely help us out, understanding the conditions a little bit better. But it is a knockout game. And I guess whoever turns up on the day could take home the trophy,” he added.
Spin: A Big Threat On Dubai Pitch
“We came up against a good side and on a spinning wicket, especially in the second inning (of the last match). We know India are probably going to go in with the same team.
“But we know it might be a different surface. So, I think we have to be ready and be adaptable for what’s coming,” he said.
Also Read: IND Vs NZ, Champions Trophy Final: Date, Time & Venue For India Vs New Zealand Match!
“If the pitch plays a similar way, it’s going to be a challenge along with all three of their other spinners. We have looked at a little bit more footage.
“I think we obviously know what his threats are now. That 115K arm ball, that got me (in the last match) and that was a bit of a threat, but yeah, we know he’s going to be a challenge,” he added.
