Champions Trophy 2025: Nasser Hussain mentioned that New Zealand will present a significantly greater challenge than South Africa, whom India defeated in the final of the 2024 T20 World Cup.
India will compete against New Zealand for the second time in the Champions Trophy 2025, and while the initial matchup was essentially inconsequential, this second encounter will determine the championship winner. India and New Zealand have consistently ranked as key contenders for major cricket titles for more than the last decade, and former England captain Nasser Hussain has stated that the Kiwis are formidable opponents.
India has the opportunity to secure a second ICC title in under a year, following their victory over South Africa in the T20 World Cup final last year. South Africa, still striving to discard the shameful label of “chokers” in major tournaments, lost the game despite requiring only 30 runs to secure victory in the final five overs. Hussain stated that New Zealand is likely to be a more challenging opponent in those circumstances.
“They won’t back down, they won’t falter.” During dinner with [former Australia captain] Aaron Finch, he articulated it nicely by stating that New Zealand is never a team that defeats itself. “And by that, he indicates they will arrive and deliver a strong performance,” Hussain stated on Sky Sports.
“They consistently play their hardest throughout the New single game, which is why they are always present in the semi-finals and finals.”
New Zealand’s remarkable streak in Pakistan
New Zealand has displayed exceptional form during their tour of Pakistan. They faced minimal challenges from South Africa and Pakistan during the tri-series held in the latter country prior to the Champions Trophy. During the tournament, they easily secured victories in the two group matches held in Pakistan but were defeated by India by 44 runs in Dubai. They subsequently went back to Pakistan to defeat South Africa by 50 runs in the semi-final.
“They possess an excellent blend of experienced veterans who have consistently performed over the years—such as Kane Williamson, a true great of the game—and youthful talent like Rachin Ravindra.” Hussain stated, “They could certainly lose [New Zealand], but if that happens, it will be due to India defeating them in Champions Trophy 2025.”
Edited By Shvetank Maurya
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