Ravi Shastri makes bold predictions for the Champions Trophy Final, selecting Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja, and Glenn Phillips as contenders for Player of the Match. He highlights the importance of players like Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson and speculates on potential lineup adjustments based on pitch conditions in Dubai. Shastri emphasizes New Zealand’s capability to challenge India in the final.
Ravi Shastri made bold predictions regarding the upcoming Champions Trophy Final, hosted by Sanjana Ganesan. He discussed potential winners and highlighted his picks for pivotal players, particularly noting his selection for the Aramco Player of the Match. Shastri suggested both Axar Patel and Ravindra Jadeja from India as contenders, alongside New Zealand’s Glenn Phillips, who has demonstrated his capabilities in previous matches.
Shastri pointed out Phillips’ performance during the semi-final against South Africa, where he scored 49 runs swiftly while also claiming two wickets. His ability to provide crucial catches has made him a standout player in this tournament. Axar and Jadeja have also been integral to India’s success, complementing fellow spinners Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakaravarthy, and strengthening the team’s batting lineup.
He emphasized that players like Virat Kohli, Kane Williamson, and Rachin Ravindra would be significant factors if their teams were to emerge victorious. Kohli and Williamson have shown excellent form, each scoring a fifty and a hundred in the tournament, while Ravindra has two centuries, including a notable one against South Africa.
Regarding the final’s venue in Dubai, which has favored spin bowlers, Shastri speculated on possible changes in team lineups, particularly for New Zealand. He remarked on the necessity to adapt based on pitch conditions, especially after observing an outstanding pitch used in a prior match against Australia.
The last encounter between India and New Zealand showed the latter as a formidable opponent, as they pushed India to perform at their best. Shastri posited, “If there’s one team that can beat India, it’s New Zealand,” affirming that India is the favorite, albeit marginally.
Overall, Shastri’s assessments reflect a keen understanding of player dynamics and match conditions, enhancing the anticipation for the final match.
In summary, Ravi Shastri’s predictions for the Champions Trophy Final highlight key players who could influence the game’s outcome, including contenders for Player of the Match such as Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja, and Glenn Phillips. His insights into player form and potential adjustments based on pitch conditions underscore the competitive nature of the match between India and New Zealand, with Shastri acknowledging New Zealand’s ability to challenge India.
Original Source: www.icc-cricket.com
