Gary Stead identifies Chakravarthy as key player in CT final
What's the story
New Zealand's head coach Gary Stead has emphasized the significance of Varun Chakravarthy in the ICC Champions Trophy final against India on March 9.
Stead's statement comes after India's spinner wrecked New Zealand's batting line-up in their last week's clash in the league stage.
"He showed his skills against us last time and he is a big threat in the game," said Stead about Chakravarthy.
Spin strategy
New Zealand's spin challenge: Stead acknowledges India's strength
Stead also admitted India's four spinners could be a challenge and could play a role in deciding the match.
He said, "They are very good spinners, all in their own right."
The coach stressed on having clear plans to counter this challenge and score runs off them.
He added they will play it by ear depending on the match situation and their players' performance.
Adaptation
Stead's insight on transitioning from high-scoring games
Stead also spoke about moving from high-scoring games in Lahore to a venue where runs are hard to come by.
He cautioned against the perils of trying too hard after scoring big in the previous matches.
The coach stressed on the need to adapt their tactics according to the day's conditions and their opponents, saying, "it's just working out what the right tactic is on the day."
Player confidence
Stead backs Williamson and Ravindra for final
Stead was confident of Kane Williamson and Rachin Ravindra, who both scored centuries in the semifinals.
He called Williamson a player who rises to big occasions and adapts quickly to different surfaces.
About Ravindra, Stead said he scores runs effortlessly and contributes with left-arm spin bowling.
"He is an important player in our team," said Stead about Ravindra.
Final showdown
New Zealand's strategy for final against India
New Zealand have vowed to "find little ways to win moments" against India in the final.
Daryl Mitchell, who scored 49 runs against South Africa in the semifinals, said past results wouldn't influence the final's outcome. "Final is a new day," he said.
Rachin Ravindra echoed this sentiment, emphasizing their adaptability to different playing conditions and surfaces.