New Zealand National Cricket Team captain Mitchell Santner has admitted that India National Cricket Team experience in Dubai’s conditions could be an advantage heading into the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final. However the left-arm spinner remains confident that New Zealand is ready for the challenge when they face Rohit Sharma’s team on March 9.

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India’s Home Advantage in Dubai

India has played all their matches at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium (DICS), gaining a deep understanding of the conditions. The slow pitch at Dubai is expected to play a key role in the final and Santner acknowledged its potential impact.

"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 upon arrival in Dubai.

New Zealand Ready to Fight

Despite the challenges of adapting to different conditions The Blackcaps has shown resilience throughout the tournament. Santner believes that their previous match against Rohit Sharma Team in the group stage has prepared them well for the final showdown.

"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.

New Zealand’s travel-heavy campaign has seen them constantly moving between host Pakistan and Dubai. However Santner downplayed the issue stating that the team has adapted well to the logistical demands.

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"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 game, it's fine," he added.