New Zealand Captain Backs Varun Chakravarthy Ahead of T20 World Cup Final New Zealand skipper Mitchell Santner emphasized the threat posed by India’s Varun Chakravarthy ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup final against India, despite the spinner’s inconsistent performance in the tournament so far. The match, set to take place at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Sunday, will see over 100,000 fans in attendance. Santner acknowledged Chakravarthy’s potential to shift the momentum of the game with a single performance, even as the Indian bowler has struggled to replicate his past form. Santner highlighted the importance of pitch conditions in determining how bowlers perform, noting that flat surfaces can challenge even the most skilled spinners. He remarked that while such conditions might allow teams to score freely, Chakravarthy’s ability to adapt could still make a significant difference. “Everyone can go for 60 on such a day,” Santner said, adding that the spinner remains a key threat. “You should know that you are only one game away from changing the tide.” The New Zealand captain also addressed the need for his team to manage the innings effectively, particularly if the match turns into a high-scoring contest. Santner suggested that restricting India to a target of around 220 runs, rather than 250, could provide a competitive edge. He noted that the pitch, still under cover, is likely to be flat and high-scoring, making it crucial for New Zealand to limit India’s scoring opportunities. Santner’s comments came ahead of the final, where New Zealand faces the challenge of countering Chakravarthy’s spin and navigating the unpredictable nature of the pitch. The captain’s focus on preparation and adaptability underscores the high stakes of the match, with both teams aiming to secure a historic victory.#india #new_zealand #icc_men_s_t20_world_cup #mitchell_santner #varun_chakravarthy
