New Zealand's batting mainstay Kane Williamson feels India possess "real clarity" about their strategy in Dubai, having hosted all their Champions Trophy games at the same ground. But he stopped short of describing it as a clear advantage and instead compared it to New Zealand's familiarity with Lahore, where they beat South Africa in the semifinal to arrange a title duel with India on Sunday.
New Zealand had previously participated in two games in Lahore during the previous tri-series against Pakistan and South Africa.
"I think having played there on several occasions; there's genuine clarity in the way they want to play. A bit similar to our chance here, having played several times at this ground as well, and I think that's part and parcel in cricket," Williamson said when questioned whether India had an advantage because of their familiarity with Dubai.
Fresh from a stunning century in the semifinal, Williamson is in high spirits and looking forward to the final confrontation.
"It is what it is (India playing all their games in Dubai). Our attention is on the next match, where we are playing, the opposition—these are all parameters. We played India once there, obviously," he said, recalling New Zealand's group-stage defeat against India.
"The circumstances are slightly different, so it's useful that we steal away some of those positives and be honest about how we're attempting to perform come the decider," he continued.
Rachin Ravindra: A "Special Talent"
Willamson was also full of praise for Rachin Ravindra, who has been playing sublime cricket, making two tons in three games.
"It's a last, so it's thrilling. If we return to Rachin, a truly special player. Always great to bat with him. He goes out, prioritizes the team, and has freedom to play," Williamson said.
"When we batted together, there were occasions of good spells, and it was a bit tough. We attempted to feed off one another and remain vigilant. He's so talented, very confident, and lucid in what he's attempting. We've observed it on many occasions, and he's bounced back again in this tournament," he said.
Conditions in Dubai: A Key Factor
The slow nature of UAE pitches has made stroke-making difficult, with spinners playing a crucial role. However, Williamson believes that having played a match in Dubai already will help New Zealand in the final.
"Sure, certainly, the conditions are much different, but that's the way the beast behaves in any tournament—conditions are going to change. For us, it was good to have that last match against India. There were some quality bits there," he said.
"India are a great side and are playing excellent. So, it's critical that we extract some learnings from that last game, leave this match aside, and in a final, anything can go."
New Zealand will seek their first-ever Champions Trophy trophy, while champions India of 2013 will seek to re-capture the title in the highly anticipated tie in Dubai.
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