Aakash Chopra identifies New Zealand's strengths ahead of Champions Trophy
What's the story
Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra has pointed out New Zealand's team unity as their biggest strength, ahead of the 2025 Champions Trophy.
In a video on his YouTube channel, Chopra stressed that every player in the Kiwi squad knows their role and delivers to their full potential, every time.
"New Zealand's biggest strength is that they know how to combine the five fingers to make a fist," he said.
Here's what Chopra had to say about the team's strengths.
Team spirit
Chopra praises New Zealand's team-first approach
Further praising New Zealand's team-first approach, Chopra said they put collective success above individual achievements.
"They believe in processes and planning, and that is why, they don't choke. They actually come together and do better because processes are more important than individuals. Everyone's role is more important than personal glory," he explained.
This mindset has played a key role in their past successes and could be the difference in the upcoming tournament.
Versatility
New Zealand's all-round talent is another strength
Chopra also highlighted the presence of all-rounders in New Zealand's squad as another strength.
He mentioned players like Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Glenn Phillips, Daryl Mitchell and Michael Bracewell who can bat and bowl.
"They are a team full of all-rounders. You see off-spinners and left-arm spinners. Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Glenn Phillips, Daryl Mitchell and Michael Bracewell, all of them bat and bowl." he said.
This versatility strengthens their lineup and could work in their favor in the tournament.
Winning streak
Chopra optimistic about New Zealand's recent form
Chopra was optimistic about New Zealand's recent form and their knowledge of conditions in Pakistan.
He referred to their wins in the tri-nation series and against India, as signs of their good current form.
"The way they won the tri-nation series recently and defeated India in India before that, they are not dropping matches. They beat us 3-0 in Tests and beat Pakistan and South Africa in all three games. So their current form is good," he observed.
Squad
New Zealand's revamped squad for the tournament
New Zealand's squad for Champions Trophy: Mitchell Santner (c), Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Will O'Rourke, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Nathan Smith, Kane Williamson, Will Young, Jacob Duffy.