Veteran batsman Ross Taylor was over the moon as New Zealand thrashed India by 8 wickets to clinch the inaugural World Test Championship (WTC) title in Southampton on Wednesday (June 23).
The Kiwi pacers demolished the Indian batting line-up on the reserve sixth day, bundling them out for a paltry 170 in the second innings.
Chasing 139 to win, New Zealand rode on skipper Kane Williamson’s 52 not out and Taylor’s unbeaten 47 to overhaul the target with 7.1 overs left in the day.
See Also: New Zealand becomes the first-ever World Test Champions; cricket fraternity lauds them
Speaking after the match, Taylor termed the WTC title win as the highlight of his career before adding that it will take a while to sink in.
"Still sinking in but it's been a couple of years coming. Lot of rain but the way the team fought from day one, to be out there in a crucial situation for a little bit, it's something I'll never forget. This would have to be the highlight of my career," Taylor said after the match.
"At the start of my career, I felt we probably didn't have the side to do this. But I am sure there are a few Kiwis waking up who will be very proud. There was a lot of pressure, it was nice to be standing up to it."
Wicketkeeper-batsman B J Watling, who retired from international cricket with this game, was also elated as he never imagined that he would be in a team of world champions.
"No, I didn't imagine I'd end as a World Test Champion. My family back home, my mum has stood up for me in tough times, my wife Jess and the two boys - a thank you to all of them.
"It's been a hell of a journey. Huge support over the years from my mates. We've got a special group, this is a great way to finish," Watling remarked.
Senior pacer Tim Southee, who took 5 wickets in the marquee game including the figures of 4/48 in India’s second innings, too was overwhelmed by the monumental achievement.
"We started this journey two years ago. To be sitting here as champions is special. There's a lot of hard work that has gone into it," the pacer said.
"Consistency comes to mind: consistency through performances, consistency in selection. We do a lot for each other. It's satisfying to achieve what we have. The turnaround dates back to beyond the last couple of years."
Southee said the team was confident about chasing down the total set by India.
"The change room was a lot calmer knowing we had two experienced guys out there," he said.
"As any international sports person, you want to look for ways to get better. That's what I've gone. This group has pushed each other to get special, work on skills and fitness," he concluded.
(With PTI inputs)
