Michael Bracewell believes ‘Kiwi ingenuity’ has helped New Zealand reach yet another ICC final ahead of the Champions Trophy clash vs India.
Michael Bracewell backs ‘Kiwi ingenuity’ for Champions Trophy
New Zealand all-rounder Michael Bracewell believes “Kiwi ingenuity” has played a key role in the Black Caps’ journey to the Champions Trophy final against India on Sunday in Dubai.
Ranked No. 4 in the world and entering the tournament as a longshot with the top betting sites, New Zealand has once again defied expectations to reach a major ICC final.
It’s a familiar script for the Black Caps, who have consistently outperformed betting odds on the global stage, making the 2015 and 2019 Cricket World Cup finals, the 2021 T20 World Cup final, and winning the inaugural World Test Championship in 2021.
When asked how New Zealand continues to punch above its weight in international cricket, Bracewell credited the team’s unique culture and collective mentality.
“Kiwi ingenuity is a real thing,” he said.
“You just try to find a way and everyone mucks in. I think that’s a real strength of our group. Everyone in our team is willing to help out and make sure that we’re all ready to go. I think that creates a really great bond between the team. I guess that puts us in good stead when we’re in those tough situations as well. We really understand each other’s game.”
As expected, New Zealand enters the final as a significant underdog, listed at +200 with Nags.bet to upset world No. 1 India, who are firm -250 favorites to win their third Champions Trophy title.
Bracewell believes the Black Caps’ composed approach under captain Mitchell Santner will be crucial in handling the pressure and pulling off another upset.
“I think Mitch Santner, in particular in this tournament, has been amazing at keeping the team nice and calm and not getting overawed by a situation,” he said.
“It’s definitely something that we focus on as a team— not getting too high or too low and just taking it as it comes. But also [we understand] that there are important moments, and we need to try and win those moments.”
With six wickets and 135 dot balls in the tournament so far, Bracewell will be aiming for another impactful performance to help New Zealand lift the trophy.
The 34-year-old remains an outside chance in the cricket betting markets to be New Zealand’s top batsman (+1200) or top bowler ( +550) with Nags.bet.
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