WTC 2021 Final: India have bowling advantage over New Zealand, says Michael Holding

India and New Zealand will face each other in WTC final from June 18.

According to Holding, India should include R Ashwin in the playing XI for his all-round abilities | GettyTeam India is scheduled to take on New Zealand in the final of the inaugural edition of the World Test Championship (WTC) at Southampton. While the Indian team is under quarantine, the Kiwis are currently playing a two-match Test series against England.

Thus, a lot of fans and pundits believe that New Zealand will have a bit of an advantage before going into the final. But, the West Indies pace bowling legend Michael Holding said that India will be having the wood over New Zealand due to the variety in their bowling attack.

Obviously, conditions will play a role. But the bowling attack India have, it will help them even if conditions remain bright. And if it’s sunny throughout, they can even afford to play two spinners. They have that advantage,Holding told The Telegraph.

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The cricketer-turned-commentator believed that whatever the conditions may be at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton, they will be favouring off-spinners and thus, the Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin will definitely feature in the Indian playing XI.

Even if conditions are damp, I still think India will include one spinner, which could be (Ravichandran) Ashwin as he can contribute well with his batting too. The pitch there (at the Ageas Bowl) does offer turn for spinners, which will be to India’s liking,” the former pacer added.

The WTC final between India and New Zealand who are no.1 and 2 ranked teams in the ICC Test Rankings respectively, is scheduled to be played at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton in front of 4000 spectators, slated to begin from June 18.

(With The Telegraph Inputs)

 
 

By Swapnil Shireesh Javkhedkar - 06 Jun, 2021

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