Sat Mar 08 17:53:00 UTC 2025: ## Blackcaps Eyeing Champions Trophy Upset Against Favourites India
**Dubai, UAE** – New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner has emphasized adaptability and communication as key factors in their bid to upset tournament favourites India in Sunday’s Champions Trophy final in Dubai. While India boasts a perfect record in Dubai, having won all four of their matches at the venue, Santner remains optimistic.
“We have to go in with an open mind about how the pitch will play and adjust accordingly,” Santner stated on Saturday. He highlighted the importance of in-game communication to assess the target score, acknowledging the potential for both high-scoring and low-scoring matches. He also noted that managing pressure periods will be crucial.
The semi-final saw Australia post 264, a tournament high in Dubai, which India successfully chased. New Zealand, however, lost their group match against India in Dubai by 44 runs, despite restricting India to 249. Santner acknowledged the loss as a learning experience, emphasizing the need to adapt to India’s likely unchanged lineup, particularly their potent spin attack.
India’s reliance on four spinners, especially the mystery spin of Varun Chakravarthy (5-42 in their last encounter against New Zealand), poses a significant challenge. Santner praised Chakravarthy’s skill and noted the learning curve for New Zealand’s batters who faced him for the first time.
The tournament’s logistical challenges, with teams travelling between Pakistan and the UAE, have been widely criticized. New Zealand’s semi-final victory in Lahore followed by a quick return to Dubai presented a significant temperature change, but Santner confirmed his team’s high spirits.
The fitness of fast bowler Matt Henry remains a concern after a shoulder injury in the semi-final. His participation will be a game-time decision.
New Zealand are aiming for their second Champions Trophy title, having previously triumphed in 2000 against India. Despite acknowledging India’s strength, Santner expressed hope for a victorious outcome, stating, “Hopefully, we’re third time lucky.”
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