India must watch out for Santner, Rachin & Conway in final: Rayudu
The Champions Trophy 2025 is all set to conclude with the final match between India and New Zealand scheduled to take place in Dubai on Sunday. As the two teams prepare to face off, former India cricketer Ambati Rayudu has sounded a warning to the Indian team, highlighting three New Zealand players who could potentially cause trouble for the Men in Blue.
In an exclusive interview, Rayudu named Mitchell Santner, Rachin Ravindra, and Devon Conway as the players India must “watch out” for in the final. With India having a strong squad, Rayudu’s words of caution are likely to have caught the attention of the team management and fans alike.
Santner’s Spin Could Prove Deadly
Rayudu’s first warning was about New Zealand’s Mitchell Santner, the left-arm spinner who has been in impressive form in the tournament. Santner’s ability to spin the ball both ways and his accuracy have made him a difficult bowler to get away, especially in the middle overs.
Rayudu acknowledged Santner’s skill, saying, “Santner is a very good bowler, especially in the middle overs. He can spin the ball both ways, and his accuracy is very good. He’s someone who can trouble Indian batsmen, especially in the middle overs.”
Ravindra’s Top-Order Batting Could Cause Problems
The second player Rayudu mentioned was Rachin Ravindra, the 23-year-old opener who has been in fantastic form in the tournament. Ravindra has already scored a century and a half-century in the tournament, and his aggressive batting style has made him a threat to any bowling attack.
Rayudu warned that Ravindra’s ability to play freely at the top of the order could cause problems for the Indian bowlers. “Ravindra is a very good opener, and he’s been playing well in the tournament. He’s someone who can take the game away from you quickly, and his partnership with Conway at the top of the order is very good.”
Conway Could Be the Dark Horse
The third and final player Rayudu mentioned was Devon Conway, the 31-year-old opener who has been in excellent form in the tournament. Conway has already scored a century and a half-century in the tournament, and his ability to play both pace and spin has made him a valuable asset to the New Zealand team.
Rayudu called Conway a “dark horse” and warned that he could be the player who makes the difference in the final. “Conway is a very good player, and he’s been playing well in the tournament. He’s someone who can make a big impact, and he’s a potential dark horse for the final.”
India Must Be Prepared
Rayudu’s words of caution are likely to have sent a warning signal to the Indian team, reminding them that they cannot take New Zealand lightly. With Santner’s spin, Ravindra’s aggressive batting, and Conway’s ability to play both pace and spin, the Indian team will need to be prepared for a tough contest.
As the final approaches, it will be interesting to see how the Indian team prepares for the challenge. Will they be able to contain Santner’s spin, neutralize Ravindra’s aggressive batting, and handle Conway’s threat with the bat? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain – the Indian team will need to be at their best to emerge victorious.
