AHMEDABAD — Mitchell Santner said New Zealand would not hesitate to “break a few hearts” if it means lifting the trophy when the team faces India national cricket team in the final of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in Ahmedabad.
Speaking ahead of the final, the New Zealand captain acknowledged the challenge of playing in front of a large home crowd but said his team remains focused on its own approach rather than outside expectations.
“It’s easy to say it’s just another game, but everyone knows it’s probably not,” Santner said. “But the way you go about it has to be the same.”
New Zealand has reached several ICC white-ball finals in recent years but has often fallen short of winning the title. Santner said the team’s consistent mindset and focus on teamwork have helped them remain competitive at the highest level.
“I wouldn’t mind winning a trophy,” he said. “If we do the little things well and put in a strong team performance, it can put us in a good position to hopefully lift the trophy.”
Strategy against India
Santner said taking early wickets will be crucial against India’s powerful batting lineup.
India, the defending champions, have been widely praised for their aggressive batting approach throughout the tournament. Santner noted that slowing their scoring will require disciplined bowling and strong execution in key moments.
“The only way to slow any team down is wickets at the top,” he said. “If you’re not taking wickets, then it’s about closing out overs and not allowing big totals.”
Conditions in Ahmedabad
The pitch in Ahmedabad is expected to provide good bounce with minimal turn, conditions that generally favour batters. Temperatures have also been high in the city, with officials covering the pitch to prevent it from drying excessively before the final.
New Zealand’s opening pair, including Finn Allen and Tim Seifert, played key roles earlier in the tournament and will be looking to provide another strong start.
Santner said pressure is inevitable in a major final but emphasized that the team must stay consistent in its preparation and approach.
“In T20 cricket it often comes down to a couple of moments,” he said. “If we stay consistent and take our chances when they come, we give ourselves the best chance to win.”
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