After Team India defeated New Zealand by 8 wickets in the second ODI in Raipur, former Indian batting coach Sanjay Bangar made a stunning remark against the Black Caps.
Indian bowlers bowled out New Zealand for a mere 108 in the second ODI in Raipur, and later the hosts chased down the target with ease to take an unassailable lead of 2-0 in the ongoing three-match ODI series, with the dead rubber set to be played in Indore on Tuesday (January 24).
Ahead of the final ODI in Indore, Bangar said that the scars of the second ODI defeat will have a long-term effect on the players’ minds, and it will be "near to impossible" for the Black Caps to upset the Indian team.
Sanjay Bangar said on Star Sports: “The way all the bowlers caused problems to the New Zealand batters, if New Zealand plays a knockout match against India in a big event, these mental scars will be in the players' minds, that beating the Indian team is close to impossible. Such wins leave a long-term effect.”
Bangar further added, “They will be extremely disappointed because the seamers troubled them and got them out. Whenever you talk about New Zealand cricket, you talk about seaming conditions, but to be in such a position in two consecutive matches means it is an area of concern.”
Praising the Indian bowlers for pitching the bowl up and not overusing the short ball, the former coach said: “When they reflect on this, how all the bowlers kept their length up and didn't use the short ball too much, they used them only when it was required.”
He signed off by saying, “Most of the wickets came on fuller-length deliveries and I feel this was a very good adjustment they made and that is what the bowlers need to do.”
Rohit-led Team India will meet New Zealand in the third and final ODI at the Holkar Cricket Stadium in Indore on Tuesday.
