As India gears up to face New Zealand in the Champions Trophy 2025 final on Sunday in Dubai, an interesting revelation has emerged from the Kiwis' practice sessions. Net bowler Shashwat Tiwari has exposed a significant weakness in New Zealand’s batting lineup, which could work to India’s advantage in the title clash.
Tiwari, who bowled to the New Zealand batters in their net session, revealed that they were struggling to counter left-arm spinners and were actively trying to improve their technique against them.
Speaking To media he said, "Today, I was fortunate enough to bowl in the nets. At one point, they asked me to bowl from 18 yards to replicate Ravindra Jadeja’s pace. But after realizing the ball was coming in too fast, they asked me to move back to 22 yards,".
"They are preparing for left-arm spinners. I wouldn’t say they are completely struggling, but considering the quality of India's spinners, it won’t be easy for them to handle," he added.
Mitchell Santner on facing Varun Chakravarthy in Champions Trophy final
New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner is well aware of the challenge posed by India's mystery spinner ahead of the highly anticipated final on Sunday.
Varun Chakravarthy has been a standout performer in the tournament, showcasing his knack for taking crucial wickets. Despite playing only two matches, he has already claimed seven wickets. With such form, he is expected to be a major threat to New Zealand's batting lineup in the title clash.
He said, "A little bit of mystery, but it was the first time some of the guys have been facing him. I think they'll learn from the other day. If the pitch plays a similar way, it's going to be a challenge along with all three of their other spinners. I think the boys will be ready for tomorrow."
Santner further added," We'll look at a little bit more footage," Santner told reporters on March 8. I think we obviously know what his threats are now. That 115kmph arm bowl, that got me. That was a bit of a threat. But we know he's going to be a challenge," .
