New Zealand have impressed one and all with their clinical display in the ongoing Cricket World Cup. The Kiwis have won all four matches so far against England, Netherlands, Bangladesh and Afghanistan.
The four victories have propelled them to the top of the points table. However, New Zealand’s biggest challenge is in the offing as they are due to face hosts India in Dharamsala on Sunday (October 22).
The Rohit Sharma-led Indian side is also on a four-match winning streak and only behind New Zealand on the 10-team points table.
Statistically speaking, the Black Caps hold an edge over India. In the 2019 edition, they ended India’s campaign in the semi-final. Overall, India and New Zealand have faced each other in 9 matches in the Cricket World Cup, with the latter winning five times as opposed to the former’s three while one game ended without a result.
“I’m not sure to be honest,” Tom Latham, who is leading New Zealand in the absence of injured Kane Williamson, said on his team’s superior record against India in the showpiece event.
However, Latham was effusive in praise of the Indian cricket team for playing “fantastic cricket” in the competition.
“They’re a fantastic team. They’ve been playing some great cricket for a long period of time. We’ve had some great contests in ICC events, but also in bilateral series, whether that be home or away.”
New Zealand were at the receiving end of heartbreak in the last two World Cups. They lost to Australia and England in the finals of the 2015 and 2019 editions respectively.
“Being adaptable is probably one of the most important things for us as a group and trying to do that as quick as possible,” Latham told reporters.
“Obviously with this format you play everyone once which is unique to 2015 where it was pool play.”
He added: “So yeah, again we’re in India, we’re offered different conditions that we’re used to. So, adaptability, sticking to our plan as best you can.”
Latham expects a very good contest between bat and ball in Dharamsala.
“India’s top order have been fantastic this tournament. And again, our bowling attack has done a really good job up front as well. So that’s going to be a great contest with bat and ball and obviously vice versa with Indian seamers in our top order.”
Latham confirmed veteran pacer Tim Southee will be available for the India match. On Williamson, who is nursing a fractured thumb, Latham said, “fingers crossed he’ll be available for later on in the tournament”.
(Firstpost Inputs)
