New Zealand's skipper, Mitchell Santner, has spoken candidly about the challenge posed by India's mystery spinner, Varun Chakravarthy, ahead of the blockbuster Champions Trophy final between the two teams on Sunday in Dubai. Santner, who himself has been an instrumental figure in New Zealand’s bowling attack, made it clear that while his team is focused on their own strengths, they are well aware of the threat Chakravarthy poses with his unique bowling style. In the group stage clash against New Zealand, Chakravarthy recorded the best figures, claiming 5 for 42 and giving New Zealand batters harrowing times.
"I think guys will be better for the run against Varun. He's obviously a world-class bowler we've seen it here and in the IPL. He's got that 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,” Santner said during the press conference.
Santner was one of the five victims, falling to a puzzling delivery from Chakravarthy.
"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 having looked at a little bit more footage. We obviously know what his threats are now. That 115kph arm ball, that got me - that was a bit of a threat. Yeah, he is going to be a challenge."