Reflecting on the abundance of talent in Indian cricket, Stephen Fleming once jokingly expressed his envy, contrasting it with New Zealand’s resources. Despite this disparity, New Zealand has consistently outperformed India in major international tournaments.
This isn’t a trivial matter. New Zealand’s 5-10 record against India in global events, highlighted by their World Test Championship victory, demonstrates their edge. They also won their only previous encounter in a similar format at the ICC Knockout 2000 final. While their upcoming Champions Trophy 2025 match won’t affect their qualification status, it will determine which team tops Group A and gains momentum for the knockout stages.
New Zealand’s consistent performance, even with fewer resources, might stem from a less pressured environment. Their players often experience job security, unlike their Indian counterparts who face intense competition for spots, as KL Rahul acknowledged.
Mike Hesson, former New Zealand coach, attributes their success to clear role definitions and teamwork. He believes New Zealand players, secure in their positions, focus on team goals and perform cohesively, a significant advantage in tournaments.
Hesson also emphasized that New Zealand’s strength isn’t underestimated. He pointed out their exceptional fielding and team unity as crucial factors for their success, anticipating they will maintain this level in the semifinals.
However, India can draw confidence from their recent dominant victory over New Zealand in the 2023 World Cup semifinal in Mumbai. In that match, India’s top order – Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, and KL Rahul – all delivered strong performances. India will aim to replicate that performance in their upcoming game.
India might consider giving opportunities to players who haven’t played yet. While Rohit Sharma appeared comfortable after a recent hamstring concern, he might opt to rest. Changes like Arshdeep Singh and Varun Chakaravarthy replacing Mohammed Shami and Kuldeep Yadav are possible.
KL Rahul mentioned the temptation to test out reserve players when possible, but wasn’t sure if it would happen in a Champions Trophy setting, suggesting potential changes but uncertainty in their execution.
Ultimately, Rahul anticipates the team’s approach will likely align with his expectations.
Team News:
India
India might make a couple of changes, potentially resting captain Rohit Sharma despite his improved condition after a hamstring issue. Mohammed Shami and Kuldeep Yadav could be replaced by Arshdeep Singh and Varun Chakravarthy respectively.
Probable XI:
Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wk), Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Varun Chakaravarthy
New Zealand
New Zealand, already qualified, might also rest players with minor injuries. Daryl Mitchell is available after recovering from illness. His return creates a selection dilemma as Rachin Ravindra, who replaced Mitchell, scored a century. Will Young, who previously replaced an injured Ravindra, also has a century in the tournament.
Probable XI:
Will Young, Devon Conway, Kane Williamson, Rachin Ravindra, Tom Latham (wk), Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner (c), Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, William O’Rourke.
Key Stats:
- Virat Kohli is set to play his 300th ODI on Sunday, having scored a century in his 200th ODI against the same opponent in 2017.
- New Zealand’s fast bowlers are known for their high release points, likely to challenge Shreyas Iyer with short deliveries, although Iyer has recently handled this tactic well.
- Despite lacking a wrist spinner, New Zealand’s spin attack, led by Mitchell Santner and Michael Bracewell, is highly effective, generating significant turn.
- Michael Bracewell is the leading spinner in wickets, with a high percentage of dot balls.
Quotes:
KL Rahul:
“No game is easy, or no team can be taken lightly. New Zealand has always been a very formidable and competitive team. We’ve played against them a lot at ICC events, and it’s often been an even contest. I anticipate another competitive game.”
Michael Bracewell:
“We try not to put too much pressure on ourselves. Coming off a Test series win boosts our confidence. We have a good record against India in ICC events and aim to keep the moment from overwhelming us, a strategy that has worked for us before.”
