Title: India must watch out for Santner, Rachin & Conway in final: Rayudu
The 2025 ICC Champions Trophy is just around the corner, and the excitement is building up. The final is scheduled to take place in Dubai on Sunday, with India set to face off against New Zealand in what promises to be a thrilling encounter. Ahead of the big match, former India cricketer Ambati Rayudu has sounded a warning note for the Indian team, urging them to “watch out” for New Zealand’s Mitchell Santner, Rachin Ravindra, and Devon Conway.
In an exclusive interview with Sportskeeda, Rayudu highlighted the strengths of the three New Zealand players, who he believes could be the difference-makers in the final. “Santner’s spin in the middle overs is something India needs to watch out for. He’s a very tricky bowler, and his ability to take wickets in those overs can be crucial,” Rayudu said.
The 39-year-old also praised Ravindra’s opening batting skills, saying that he could be a game-changer for New Zealand. “Ravindra has been in excellent form lately, and his ability to play those big shots at the top of the order can be very damaging for India. He’s a very aggressive player, and if he gets going, it could be difficult for India to contain him,” Rayudu stated.
But it’s Conway who Rayudu believes could be the “dark horse” for New Zealand. “Conway is a very underrated player, and he’s been playing some brilliant cricket lately. He’s got the ability to play both aggressively and defensively, and his experience of playing in big games could be crucial in the final,” Rayudu said.
Rayudu’s comments are a testament to the depth and quality of New Zealand’s squad, which has been impressive in recent years. Under the leadership of Kane Williamson, the Kiwis have become a formidable force in international cricket, and their ability to adapt to different conditions has been a key factor in their success.
For India, the Champions Trophy final presents a chance to redeem themselves after a disappointing World Cup campaign. Under the leadership of Rohit Sharma, the Indian team has shown flashes of brilliance, but they will need to be at their best to overcome a strong New Zealand side.
Rayudu’s words of warning are a reminder that India cannot take their opponents lightly. Santner’s spin, Ravindra’s aggressive batting, and Conway’s experience could be the X-factor that tips the balance in New Zealand’s favor.
In recent years, India have struggled against New Zealand’s spinners, and Santner’s ability to take wickets in the middle overs could be a major concern for the Indian team. Ravindra’s opening batting also presents a challenge, as India’s pace bowling attack has been struggling to contain aggressive openers.
Conway, meanwhile, has a reputation for rising to the big occasion, and his experience of playing in high-pressure games could be a major factor in the final. His ability to play both aggressively and defensively makes him a difficult player to dismiss, and India will need to find a way to neutralize his threat if they are to emerge victorious.
In conclusion, Rayudu’s words of warning are a reminder that India cannot take their opponents lightly. Santner, Ravindra, and Conway are three players who could make a significant impact in the final, and India will need to be at their best to overcome them. As the big match approaches, fans are eagerly waiting to see which team will emerge victorious. Will India’s batting might be enough to overcome New Zealand’s spin and experience, or will the Kiwis’ depth and quality prove too much for the Indians? Only time will tell.
