Ravi Shastri suggests an unexpected alteration in India XI for Champions Trophy final against New Zealand: 'Groundsman had 5 days...'

India is preparing for the highly anticipated Champions Trophy 2025 final against New Zealand in Dubai, with head coach Ravi Shastri hinting at a possible change in the playing XI. Shastri is keeping his cards close to his chest, not revealing which player could potentially be left out. He has cited the pitch conditions as a key factor in making this decision, emphasizing the importance of selecting the best lineup based on the playing surface. The team and fans alike will be eagerly awaiting the final lineup announcement as India aims for victory in this crucial match.

India played with the same XI in the semi-final against Australia that also defeated New Zealand earlier in the competition, with Varun Chakaravarthy running through the Kiwi batting order in his first match of the tournament. The spinner picked a five-wicket haul, which ensured his place for the knock-out match on Tuesday.

“I won't be surprised if there might be a change for either side depending on the pitch,” Shastri told The ICC Review. “Because the pitch we saw against Australia was the best pitch we've seen in the tournament.”

Shastri further emphasized that with ample time for pitch preparation, teams might reconsider their strategies.

“So the groundsman has another five days since the last game to prepare a surface and if it's a 280-300 surface like the last one was, you might just want to think about it. But you won't tinker with the side unless necessary,” said Shastri.

Axar Patel, Jadeja or Glenn Phillips?

Shastri also weighed in on potential Player of the Match candidates, highlighting the impact of all-rounders. “Player of the Match, I would go for an all-rounder,” he noted.

“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.”

Shastri also singled out Virat Kohli, Kane Williamson, and Rachin Ravindra as the players who could have the biggest impact in the final.

“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,” he said.

“So from New Zealand, I would say Williamson. To an extent, Rachin Ravindra, he 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.”

With India heading into the final as slight favorites, Shastri acknowledged New Zealand's potential to spring a surprise. “If there's one team that can beat India, it's New Zealand,” he remarked. “So India start as favourites but only just.”

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