Veteran New Zealand batsman Ross Taylor feels that the postponement of IPL 2021 “played into India’s hands” as it resulted in Virat Kohli-led team getting more time to acclimatise to English conditions before next month's World Test Championship (WTC) final.
The 14th edition of Indian Premier League, which got suspended on May 4 due to multiple COVID cases inside the bio-bubbles, was due to culminate on May 30. On the other hand, the WTC final between India and New Zealand is scheduled to be held in Southampton from June 18-22.
"For India, IPL finishing early under unfortunate circumstances has probably played into their hands a little," Taylor told reporters on Sunday (May 23).
"If IPL would have gone on they would have had a smaller preparation but now they will be a lot more conditioned, their bowlers will have their loads up," he added.
New Zealand playing two Tests against England before the WTC final is a definite advantage for the Kane Williamson-led side, and Taylor also agrees that they will be prepared for the marquee game.
"I would be lying if you think there isn't some sort of thought about the WTC final but I couldn't think of a better preparation than playing two Tests against England. At the end of the day it's a neutral venue.
"Playing two Tests gives us a slight advantage but this Indian team has been number one for a long period of time and has had a lot of success over here," he added.
Last week, some media reports were claiming that the BCCI has requested ECB to alter the schedule of India's five-Test series against England for completing the remainder of IPL 2021.
Asked if he is concerned about the future of international cricket seeing the expansion and popularity of T20 leagues, Taylor said, "IPL is probably the most high-profile and countries move it around when they don't have the same power. It is what it is, players want to play in it.
"I hope that international cricket still has relevance and priorities at times. As long as things are being moved around it is fine... as long as they aren't getting cancelled and what not."
Ross, who has represented New Zealand in 105 Tests, 233 ODIs and 102 T20Is, believes most cricketers would still consider international cricket as the pinnacle.
"It's changed a lot form when I started — IPL, the movement and players. We, as team, weren't able to play in the whole IPL, we played only a couple of weeks.
"It's a move for the good but I hope international cricket is still the pinnacle and I'm sure of it. You ask most of the international cricketers and that's the case."
The right-hander also rubbished rumours regarding his retirement.
"Age is just a number and as long as you're still enjoying it and feel like you're good enough and can contribute to the team on and off the field."
"I did have 35 in my mind because of the 2019 World Cup but I went there and felt I could still contribute, and therefore, I didn't think just because it was a World Cup it was time to retire, but no I don't have a number in mind," he concluded.
(With PTI inputs)
