Champions Trophy 2025 Match 1, PAK vs NZ: New Zealand's Mitchel Santner, right, and teammates congratulate each others after winning. | Photo: AP/Anjum Naveed Champions Trophy 2025 Match 1, PAK vs NZ: New Zealand's Mitchel Santner, right, and teammates congratulate each others after winning. | Photo: AP/Anjum Naveed

New Zealand skipper Mitchell Santner on Thursday acknowledged India's familiarity with the slow pitch here at the DICS707bet, but said his side is ready for a "scrap" in the Champions Trophy final. (Full Coverage | More Cricket News)

The Kiwis arrived in Dubai on Thursday evening ahead of the ICC showpiece's title clash against India on March 9.

"They've played all their games here in Dubai and know that surface. Obviously, the surface will dictate a little bit of how we want to operate. It might be a little bit slower than what we got in Lahore.It might be more of a scrap, but we're down to scrap," Santner said after touching base in the city.

However, Santner said New Zealand can take some solace from their experience of playing against India during the group stage.

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BY PTI

Taking inspiration from Dravid,betef Sreejesh planned to take on the same role within the hockey setup.

"I want to become a coach. That was always my plan but now there is a question of when. After retirement, family comes first. I need to talk with them if they are OK with this. Now you have to listen to your wife a little bit," Sreejesh told PTI editors at its headquarters here on Tuesday.

On that instance, India had beaten New Zealand by 44 runs in a Group A match that only carried an academic interest.

"We've come against a good side.I think we'll be better for the run we had the other day against them. We've had a bit of a roll on. Hopefully, it continues," he added.

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The Antipodeans had to shuttle between Pakistan and Dubai for their last group match, semifinal and the final in a short span.

But the left-arm spinner said the team has adapted to a busy schedule in the last few days.

"It's just the general feel of this tournament, moving around a lot. It's all part of the challenge. I think we've been to every place here.

"Obviously, in Pakistan and Dubai. I think the guys understand it's part of it these days. As long as you're ready to go for the game707bet, it's fine," he said.