Final destination

T20 WC final: It’s India’s star power vs ruthless NZ machine at Motera

- S KANNAN

India's Sanju Samson during a training session on the eve of the final

(PTI)

Men in Blue versus the Black Caps — not quite the script many imagined for the ICC T20 World Cup final. Yet here we are.

As the two teams clash at the imposing Narendra Modi Stadium on Sunday, it may be tempting to label India the favourites on home turf. But that would be premature as Suryakumar Yadav’s side prepares to face Mitchell Santner’s men, who looked red-hot against South Africa in the semifinal.

Defending champions India began their World Cup campaign slowly before finding rhythm and peaking with a commanding performance against England in Mumbai. With both teams entering the final in strong form, the stage is set for a fascinating battle — flair versus consistency, star power versus ruthless efficiency.

In the buildup to the tournament, India enjoyed success against New Zealand in a bilateral T20 series. But that means little now. Sunday's marquee clash pits two balanced and battle-ready sides against each other. Bookmakers abroad may tilt towards India, but fans would do well not to get carried away.

The Ahmedabad venue inevitably evokes memories of the heartbreak of November 19, 2023, when India lost the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup Final to Australia at the same stadium. Yet dwelling on the past serves little purpose. New Zealand have long proven themselves masters of big moments — none more so than their victory in the 2021 ICC World Test Championship Final under the astute leadership of Kane Williamson. Santner’s leadership reflects