image sourced from original article at New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner says he is prepared to 'break a few hearts' if it means securing his country’s first major white-ball world title when they face India in the final in Ahmedabad. Speaking ahead of the match, Santner stressed that his side will focus on playing their own game and not be overwhelmed by the occasion or the opposition.
New Zealand have reached five global white-ball finals since 2011 but have failed to lift the trophy each time. With more than 130,000 fans expected at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Santner acknowledged that his team will start as underdogs but believes strong execution in key moments can give them a chance. He echoed the sentiment that silencing a passionate home crowd is one of the greatest satisfactions for an away team.
Santner added that much of the pressure will rest on India to win a world title at home. He also admitted that the ongoing conflict in West Asia, involving the United States, Israel and Iran, has affected players, particularly with travel disruptions, though he emphasized the need to stay focused on the final.
