In Champions Trophy final Can Mitchell Santner really be a threat to Rohit Sharma & Virat
New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner has been instrumental in leading his team to the Champions Trophy 2025 final with his exceptional leadership and bowling skills. In the tournament, he has picked up 7 wickets in 4 matches, showcasing his miserly bowling style. Against India in the league match at Dubai, Santner took 1/41 and scored 28 runs, helping restrict India to 249/9.
Santner's effectiveness against India's top batsmen is noteworthy. Virat Kohli has faced 259 deliveries from Santner, scoring 180 runs at an average of 60 but with a cautious strike rate of 69. Kohli has been dismissed only three times and has hit just five fours and two sixes. Rohit Sharma has been slightly more aggressive, scoring 102 runs in 102 deliveries with six fours and six sixes, getting out twice.
Santner's record against India in ODIs highlights his ability to curtail runs rather than take wickets. In 24 matches, he has taken 15 wickets with an average of 61.20 and a strike rate of 77.2, but maintains a low economy rate of 4.75. This strategic approach makes him a valuable asset for New Zealand in the final.