Kane Williamson motivated New Zealand to reach the Champions Trophy final with a win over South Africa in Lahore on Wednesday. After a loss to Rohit Sharma and his team in the group stage, he was confident that his side would perform better against India in the final.
“India is a very good team and they are playing really well,” said Williamson. “So, it is important for us to learn from that match. Forget that loss, because in a final, anything can happen. The atmosphere was great in that game and I am sure it will be the same in the final.”
New Zealand booked their spot in the March 9 final with a strong 50-run win against South Africa in the second semi-final. In that match, both Williamson and Rachin Ravindra scored excellent centuries, helping New Zealand reach a record score of 362 for 6. Later, captain Mitchell Santner’s spin bowling (3 for 43) helped keep South Africa to 312 for 9.
Williamson also mentioned that the playing conditions in Dubai are very different from those in Pakistan. In Dubai, India had a top score of 267 for 6 in their semi-final win against Australia, but in Pakistan, teams have crossed the 300-run mark eight times.
“The conditions are different, so we must take these positives and be clear about our plan for the final,” said Williamson.
“We will celebrate tonight, but soon we will shift our focus to the next match, which is a great chance for us,” added the former New Zealand captain.
Williamson also praised Ravindra, noting that all five of his ODI hundreds have come in major ICC events.
“Rachin is a very special talent,” said Williamson after sharing a 164-run partnership with Ravindra for the second wicket. “It is always great to bat with him. He puts the team first and plays with complete freedom.”
