The article discusses New Zealand’s performance in ICC tournaments and their struggle to win white-ball trophies. Despite making it to numerous finals, they have been unable to clinch the title. Captain Mitchell Santner expressed pride in his team’s fighting spirit but acknowledged the need to break the jinx. The article also highlights New Zealand’s history of losing in ICC knockout games, with their recent defeat against India in the Champions Trophy final. Santner reflected on the missed opportunities and the challenges of facing India in crucial matches. The decision to bat first in the final, despite the absence of dew, was discussed, with Santner defending the choice despite falling short of the 275-run mark. The article concludes by mentioning India’s spinners’ role in restricting New Zealand’s score in the final. New Zealand’s batsmen struggled to maintain a good run rate, with Michael Bracewell providing a much-needed boost to help them reach a score of over 250. Santner acknowledged the middle-overs collapse as a crucial factor in the final match.
Missing spearhead Matt Henry due to injury was a setback for New Zealand, as his absence was felt in such a crucial game. Santner praised Rohit Sharma for his aggressive batting at the top of the order, which set the tone for India’s chase.
Despite a strong start by India, New Zealand managed to create some pressure in the middle stages, resulting in a few quick wickets. The Kiwi spinners, led by Santner and Bracewell, played a key role in disrupting India’s momentum.
Overall, New Zealand put up a good fight, but Rohit’s early assault and India’s strong start ultimately proved to be decisive in the final outcome. Despite the loss, New Zealand showed resilience and determination throughout the match. Please provide the content that you would like me to rewrite.
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