Shastri: New Zealand The Only Team That Can Beat India In Final

Ahead of the Champions Trophy final between India and New Zealand, former India head coach Ravi Shastri has issued a word of caution for the Rohit Sharma-led team.

Despite India’s unbeaten record in the tournament so far, including a win over New Zealand in the group stage, Shastri believes that the Blackcaps are the only team capable of defeating India.

New Zealand’s Strong Track Record

Shastri’s assessment is grounded in New Zealand’s past performances against India in ICC knockouts.

The Blackcaps have won three out of four such encounters, showcasing their ability to challenge India when it matters most. “If there’s one team that can beat India, it’s New Zealand.

So India starts as favourites, but only just,” Shastri said in The ICC Review.

Shastri also pointed out the importance of all-rounders in the final, naming Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, and Glenn Phillips as potential candidates for the Player of the Match award.

“From India, I’d say Axar Patel or Ravindra Jadeja. From New Zealand, Glenn Phillips could surprise with a cameo or a key wicket,” Shastri noted.

Shastri further predicted that Virat Kohli, Kane Williamson, and Rachin Ravindra would play pivotal roles in the final. Both Kohli and Williamson have been in exceptional form, with each scoring a century and a fifty in the tournament.

Ravindra has impressed as well, registering two centuries, including a match-winning knock in the semi-final against South Africa.

“When these guys get hot, they’re trouble. Whether it’s Williamson or Kohli, once they get past their first 10 runs, they’re dangerous,” Shastri said, highlighting their potential to turn the game in their teams’ favour.

Potential Changes In Playing XI

Shastri also addressed the conditions in Dubai, which have favoured spinners throughout the tournament.

He suggested that both teams might tweak their playing XIs depending on the pitch conditions. New Zealand, who lost their group-stage match to India at the same venue, might consider changes to adapt to the surface.

“The pitch we saw against Australia was the best of the tournament. If the pitch is similar, around 280-300, teams might want to think about changes. But unless necessary, you won’t tinker with the side,” Shastri added.

As India prepares for their third Champions Trophy title, Shastri’s analysis presents an intriguing perspective on how New Zealand could stand as their toughest opposition yet in the final.

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