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Ravi Shastri Fires Warning! Asks India To Be Cautious Of 'Dangerous' New Zealand

Soumyajit Dutta

Ravi Shastri, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli [Source: @pprja_14/X.com]Ravi Shastri, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli [Source: @pprja_14/X.com]

Former India coach and cricketing stalwart Ravi Shastri has labelled Team India as slight favourites to lift the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 but issued a stern warning about New Zealand’s ability to spring a surprise in Sunday’s high-voltage final in Dubai.

With Rohit Sharma and Co. gearing up and resting too to stay fresh ahead of the game, Ravi Shastri sent out a proper message to the team that underlines the fact that underestimating the Kiwis can be a challenge.

India’s Dominance vs. New Zealand’s Knockout Edge

Shastri, speaking on The ICC Review, acknowledged India’s unbeaten run in the tournament, including a group-stage victory against the Blackcaps, but highlighted New Zealand’s historical edge in ICC knockout clashes. 

“If there’s one team that can beat India, it’s New Zealand. So India start as favorites—but only just,” Shastri said. 

Notably, the final is a rematch of the 2000 Champions Trophy decider in Nairobi, where New Zealand triumphed by four wickets. 

Notably, India stormed into the title clash with a commanding semifinal victory over Australia, extending their flawless campaign. New Zealand, meanwhile, cruised past South Africa in Lahore, showcasing their trademark composure in high-stakes games.

Ravi Shastri Predicts Player Of The Match

Shastri tipped all-rounders to shine in the final, naming India’s Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel alongside New Zealand’s Glenn Phillips as potential Player of the Match candidates. 

“Player of the Match, I would go for an all-rounder. I’ll say Axar Patel or Ravindra Jadeja from India. From New Zealand, I think that Glenn Phillips has something up. He might just show flashes of brilliance in the field. He might come and smash a cameo of 40, 50 and probably surprise you by taking a wicket or two,” he said.

Kohli, Williamson, and the ‘Rachin Factor’

Shastri singled out Virat Kohli, Kane Williamson, and rising star Rachin Ravindra as game-changers for the upcoming clash.

“Now (on) current form, Kohli. When these guys get hot and you let them get their first 10 runs, then they’re trouble. Whether it’s Williamson, whether it’s Kohli," Shastri said.

"So from New Zealand, I would say Williamson. To an extent, Rachin Ravindra, is a fabulous young player. But these guys when they smell the coffee and you let them, in a final, get to that 10-15, then they’re doubly dangerous." Shastri added.

With India dominating the tournament so far with a winning streak, the Men in Blue will be confident to take on the BlackCaps after defeating them once in this tournament. Nevertheless, fans of both teams are holding their breath as the mega finale awaits on March 9 at 2:30 PM IST.