Santner Positive Confidence: ‘He is only one game away from changing the tide,’ says Santner on Varun’s poor form

Ahmedabad: New Zealand skipper Mitchell Santner believes India’s Varun Chakaravarthy can still be a threat for his side in the final of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Sunday, saying that it will only take one match for the mystery spinner to get back in form.

Speaking ahead of the title clash, Santner, who is New Zealand’s spin spearhead, defended Varun after he conceded 64 runs against England in the semi-final. The New Zealand skipper said bowling on a flat wicket is always difficult, and any bowler can have a tough day.

Santner Backs Varun Chakaravarthy Ahead of T20 World Cup Final

“I mean, we’ve all seen how good he is, and I think the challenge for any bowler is when it is flat, what does it look like when it’s spinning and when it’s seaming, it’s obviously a challenge for every batter but when it is flat what does that look like and I think everyone goes for 60 on their day,” Santner said in the pre match press conference.

One Match Can Change a Player’s Form

“So I think it’s, again, for Varun, and I think he’s got to know that he’s still a very good bowler, and is only one game away from changing the tide. And it’s the same with any bowler or any batter. If they’re out of form, they’re only one game away from being back in form,” he added.

Santner’s statement reflects the unpredictable nature of T20 cricket, where performances can shift dramatically within a single match. In high-pressure tournaments like the ICC T20 World Cup, players often find their rhythm again when it matters the most.

The New Zealand captain acknowledged that every bowler faces challenging phases during tournaments, especially when pitches do not assist spin or seam movement.

Varun’s Strong Performance in the Group Stage

The world No.1 bowler Chakaravarthy was in excellent form during the group stage of the tournament. He took nine wickets in four matches and maintained an economy rate of 5.2. His timely breakthroughs helped India stay unbeaten in the group stage.

Varun’s ability to deceive batters with his variations made him one of India’s most effective bowlers during the early phase of the competition. His disciplined bowling and clever use of spin helped India maintain control over opposition batting line-ups.

The mystery spinner’s performances also played a crucial role in India’s strong campaign during the initial matches, helping the team secure important victories.

Dip in Form During Super 8 and Semi-Final

However, his performance dipped after that. In the three Super 8 stage matches and the semi-final, he managed only four wickets. He has also been expensive in those games, conceding runs at an economy rate of 11.6, which has created some concern for the Indian team.

In T20 cricket, such fluctuations are not uncommon, particularly when bowlers face aggressive batting line-ups on flat pitches. Opposition teams often target key bowlers in knockout matches, attempting to disrupt their rhythm.

Despite the recent struggles, many cricket experts believe Varun Chakaravarthy still possesses the skill and experience to make a decisive impact in the final match.

Similar Journey to the Semi-Finals for Both Teams

India and New Zealand have taken similar paths to the semifinals. India topped their preliminary group stage and then scampered into the last-four stage, beating the West Indies in a must-win clash.

The Indian team demonstrated resilience and determination during the tournament, especially during the crucial knockout stages where every match carried significant pressure.

New Zealand’s Qualification Through Net Run Rate

Meanwhile, New Zealand qualified on the basis of better Net Run Rate after a tie on four points with Pakistan in the Super 8 stage.

The BlackCaps displayed consistent performances throughout the tournament, relying on a balanced combination of experienced players and emerging talent. Their disciplined bowling and calculated batting have helped them reach the final.

High Stakes for Both Teams in the Final

The final between India and New Zealand promises to be an exciting contest between two strong cricketing sides. Both teams have shown impressive form throughout the tournament and will aim to deliver their best performance in the title clash.

India will rely on their powerful batting lineup and versatile bowling attack, while New Zealand will depend on their strategic gameplay and experienced leadership.

Historic Opportunity in the T20 World Cup Final

India is hoping to become the first country to win the prestigious title thrice, while the BlackCaps are looking to claim their maiden crown.

The final match at the Narendra Modi Stadium is expected to attract massive attention from cricket fans around the world. For players like Varun Chakaravarthy, the match also presents an opportunity to silence critics and prove their value on the biggest stage.

As Mitchell Santner pointed out, it sometimes takes only one outstanding performance to change the course of a player’s tournament. With the trophy on the line, the final could provide that defining moment.

Follow MunsifNews24x7 for latest updates.