Putting India under pressure boosted our confidence, warns Santner ahead of CT final

Despite suffering a loss in their final group stage match against India in the ICC Champions Trophy, New Zealand skipper Mitchell Santner believes that putting Rohit Sharma's side under pressure in that encounter boosted his team's confidence ahead of their upcoming title clash in Dubai on Sunday.

- TRIDIB BAPARNASH

New Zealand beat South Africa by 50 runs in the second semifinal in Lahore on Wednesday to set up a final date with India.

India had beaten Australia by four wickets in the first semifinal on Tuesday.

"Being there in Dubai and putting India under pressure gave us confidence. You take in what things work and what doesn't. I think the bowlers bowled well to chip wickets at the top. I think winning the toss will be nice as well," Santner told the media after the Champions Trophy semifinal against South Africa on Wednesday.

India had beaten New Zealand by 44 runs in their final group match last Sunday.

"It's a cool feeling to make the final. We were challenged by a good side. We've had a go against India, look forward to do it again."