'They will not bottle it, they won't choke' - Nasser Hussain backs New Zealand for Champions Trophy 2025 final vs India
"They also have that great mixture between senior pros," Nasser Hussain said.
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The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final is all set to witness India take on New Zealand in Dubai on March 9. While India enters the clash as the only unbeaten side in the tournament and favorites, former England captain Nasser Hussain has backed the Black Caps to put up a strong fight. Hussain quashed any notions of New Zealand choking under pressure, mentioning their ability to perform on the big occasions.
For over a decade, the Kiwis have been that one team who have consistently performed in the ICC events and received appreciation for their abilities. Hussain addressed New Zealand's history of stepping up in crucial times. Recalling a conversation with former Australia batter Aaron Finch.
"They will not bottle it, they won't choke. We were having dinner with [former Australia batter] Aaron Finch and he summed it up pretty well in saying New Zealand are never a side that beat themselves. And by that, he means that they will rock up, and they will put in a performance. All the way through the New Zealand lineup they have some very, very tough cricketers who turn up to every single game and give it their absolute best - that's why they will always be there around semi-finals and finals," he told Sky Sports.
They may well lose, but if they do, it will be because India beat them: Nasser Hussain
Meanwhile, the Kiwis stormed into the final with a clinical 50-run victory over South Africa in the semi-final. The Mitchell Santner-led side has a well-rounded bowling attack, particularly in spin, which could be a strong factor on a used pitch. Their fast bowlers have also troubled India in the past. The movement generated by their pacers early on in the innings caused problems for India in the group stage match.
While Rohit Sharma & men consists of an all-round squad with star performers across all departments, Hussain believes New Zealand won’t go down without a fight. He pointed out that the Kiwis have the right mix of experienced players like Kane Williamson and youngsters like Rachin Ravindra.
"They also have that great mixture between senior pros that have been there year in, year out like Kane Williamson, one of the all-time greats - and youth in the likes of Rachin Ravindra. They may well lose [New Zealand], but if they do, it will be because India beat them," he added.
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