T20 World Cup Final: New Zealand wants to ‘break hearts’ against India

Santner men don’t have to look far for inspiration.

The venue for this final is the same as the 2023 World Cup final, when Australia stunned previously unbeaten India to win the title.

Under the weight of expectations, India were hesitant with the bat and were bowled out for 240 before Travis Head’s century guided Australia to a runaway victory.

“Obviously there is a lot of pressure on India to win the World Cup on home soil,” Santner said.

“We can go there and try to put more pressure on them and see what happens.”

Against Australia, India reached 76-1 in 10 overs but only 72 runs came between the start of the 11th over and the end of the 30th over.

The change in regime should prevent India from being cautious again, but New Zealand, who have reached this final despite losing to South Africa and England previously in the tournament, should pounce on any sign.

India captain Suryakumar Yadav said he did not feel the need to discuss the 2023 defeat with the team.

“We prepared for this stage really well,” he said. “It started two years ago and the department has reached the same ballpark where we left in 2023.

“I hope we play good cricket, and be brave in difficult situations. That’s the simple message for the team.”