New Zealand’s captain, Mitchell Santner, stated that his team is well aware of the challenges posed by Varun, having already encountered him in their group match.
While India boasts numerous experienced players that New Zealand will be mindful of in the Champions Trophy final, one of their less experienced players, Varun Chakravarthy, is also a significant concern for the New Zealand batsmen.
Varun Chakravarthy, despite playing only three ODIs, has impressively taken eight wickets at an average of 18.12. His most remarkable performance was against New Zealand in their previous group stage encounter, where he claimed 5 wickets for 42 runs on a spin-friendly pitch, baffling several New Zealand batsmen.
Chakravarthy’s effectiveness extends beyond just New Zealand’s team. He was recently observed troubling even Virat Kohli, a seasoned player, during net practice at the ICC Academy before the final. Following his five-wicket haul against New Zealand, Chakravarthy delivered another strong performance against Australia in the semi-final, on a less spin-supportive pitch, taking 2 wickets for 49 runs in 10 overs.
According to Mitchell Santner, facing Chakravarthy once already could be advantageous for the batsmen in handling him during the final. He mentioned this on the day before the final match.
“I believe the team will be better equipped to play against Varun after facing him previously. He is undoubtedly a world-class bowler, as evident from his performances here and in the IPL. He possesses a certain mystery. It was the first time some of our players faced him, and I expect they will have learned from that experience,” Santner explained.
Santner himself experienced a particularly challenging delivery from Chakravarthy during their group match, a quick, flat ball that spun sharply to dismiss him.
“If the pitch behaves similarly, it will be a challenge, especially considering their other three spinners as well. However, having reviewed more footage, I believe the guys will be prepared for tomorrow. We are now aware of his strengths, particularly that 115kph arm ball that dismissed me – it’s definitely a threat,” Santner added.
While Chakravarthy is India’s leading spin wicket-taker in the tournament, India’s other spin bowlers have also thrived on the spinning track in Dubai. Axar Patel has secured five wickets, while Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja each have four. They were particularly effective in restricting New Zealand during their previous match.
“The way Axar and Jadeja applied pressure for extended periods in the previous game could be replicated on a slow pitch. In such conditions, rotating the strike and capitalizing on loose deliveries can help accumulate a decent score,” Santner commented.
“We have capable players of spin, and it’s about allowing them to play their natural game, whether it involves sweeping or utilizing their footwork. We encourage our players to express themselves,” Santner concluded.
New Zealand also has a strong spin attack with Santner, Michael Bracewell, Glenn Phillips, and Rachin Ravindra.
“Similarly, for us, the key is to consistently build pressure to induce false shots from the opposition,” Santner stated, highlighting New Zealand’s own spin strategy.
