Now that New Zealand have reached the final of the ongoing Champions Trophy after battering South Africa in semi-final on Wednesday in Lahore, batter Kane Williamson has stressed that New Zealand should learn from their last defeat against India suffered during the group stage clash last Sunday. Notably, New Zealand will be facing India in the final.
In the semi-final against South Africa, Kane Williamson and Rachin Ravindra both hammered centuries to take the side to victory. Meanwhile, the final between India and New Zealand will be held on Sunday in Dubai.
"India are an outstanding team and playing really well," said Williamson during the press conference.
"So, look, it's important we try and take away some learnings from that last game. Park this match, and in a final, anything can happen."
"And it was a great atmosphere last game and I'm sure it'll be a good one again."
Williamson also lauded young talent Rachin Ravindra with whom he forged a 164-run partnership to take the side to a big total of (362) against South Africa.
"Rachin is an incredibly special talent. It's always great to bat with him. He goes out and he puts the team first and he plays with that freedom.”
Williamson also appreciated the efforts of skipper Mitchell Santner, who took three crucial wickets to help the side restrict South Africa to 312/9 in 50 overs.
"He's an outstanding operator, a great reader of the game and of batsmen, and he's done it for so many years now," Williamson said.
"He's a world-class spinner and a big part of our attack and obviously the leader of our team now too."