New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner has acknowledged that India have an advantage going into the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final, with their familiarity with the Dubai conditions potentially giving them an edge.
India, having played all their matches in Dubai, are well-acquainted with the surface, which Santner believes could significantly impact the final showdown between the two sides.
“They’ve played all their games here in Dubai and know that surface. Obviously, the surface will dictate a little bit of how we want to operate,” Santner stated in a press conference ahead of the final.
He noted that the pitch in Dubai is expected to be slower than the one New Zealand encountered in Lahore, which could make the contest more challenging.
“It might be a little bit slower than what we got in Lahore. It might be more of a scrap, but we’re down to scrap,” he added, emphasizing his team’s readiness for a hard-fought battle.
Santner also spoke about the hectic travel schedule during the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, with New Zealand frequently moving between Dubai and Lahore.
The Blackcaps played their last group-stage match in Dubai against India on March 2, then traveled to Lahore for their semi-final. After securing their place in the final, the team has now returned to Dubai for the much-anticipated title clash.
After securing their place in the finals, the team have returned to Dubai, but Santner believes the team has adapted to the quick travel schedule.
“It’s just the general feel of this tournament, moving around a lot. It’s all part of the challenge. I think we’ve been to every place here,” Santner commented, referring to the demanding travel schedule between Dubai and Lahore.
“Obviously, in Pakistan and Dubai. I think the guys understand it’s part of it these days. As long as you’re ready to go for the game, it’s fine.”