Varun Chakaravarthy made a striking impression in the ICC Men's Champions Trophy 2025, particularly with his five-wicket haul against New Zealand in a Group A match. The impact of Chakravarthy's performance is still haunting New Zealand ahead of the Champions Trophy final against India which is scheduled for March 9 at the Dubai International cricket stadium.
Mitchall Santer reveals NZ batter's masterplan to counter Varun Chakravarthy challenge
New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner is keenly aware of the mystery spinner's potential impact in the upcoming final on Sunday showdown.
Throughout the tournament, Varun has displyed his wicket-taking abilities, picking seven wickets in just two appearances. His effectiveness was further demonstrated in the semi-final against Australia, where he secured two crucial wickets, including the dismissal of Travis Head. This proves how big a threat he will be for the New Zealand batters heading into the final.
In the lead-up to the highly anticipated final against India, New Zealand captain offered high praise for the Indian spinner. Santner specifically highlighted the 33-year-old's exceptional skill and discussed the effectiveness of his fast arm-ball, which had previously troubled him during their group stage encounter. He also revealed that how their batters are preparing to counter Chakravarthy challenger by watching the footage of his bowling again and again.
"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. 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," he added.
New Zealand have so far won two ICC titles, and notably both came against India. Their first major triumph came in 2000 with the ICC Knockout trophy, where they emerged victorious against the Men in Blue. More recently, in 2021, New Zealand won the World Test Championship (WTC) title, once again defeating India in the final. Santner has this psychological advantage in his mind before the mega clash.
"Hopefully we're third time lucky. India are going to be a challenge tomorrow. They've been playing some very good cricket. They understand these conditions pretty well. I think we've also been playing decent. Admittedly, obviously, slightly different conditions. But I think, having the run against India here a few days ago will definitely help us out, understanding the conditions a little bit better. But it is a knockout game. And I guess whoever turns up on the day could take home a trophy," he concluded.
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