Former Indian fast bowler Ajit Agarkar has stated that he doesn’t think the Virat Kohli’s team will be guilty of underestimating New Zealand in the upcoming World Test Championship final.
Agarkar feels the underdog doesn’t apply to New Zealand anymore as they have been a quality for some time now.
Agarkar added that the Kiwis have been strong contenders in major ICC events. New Zealand finished as the runners-up of the 2015 and 2019 World Cup.
Furthermore, they finished as the semi-finalists of the 2016 T20 World Cup. Thus, the Kiwis have been consistent performers in the big events and it is not going to be easy for India in the WTC final.
Agarkar added that Indian team shouldn’t underestimate New Zealand.
Agarkar said while talking to Star Sports, “I hope not. I don’t think the Indian team will be guilty of underestimating the Kiwis. I think the underdog tag has gone away from New Zealand.”
“Every ICC tournament you look at – whether it’s the T20 World Cup, the Champions Trophy, the World Cup; they always turn up, they’re always there in the thereabout. If not the finals, then in the quarterfinals or the semi-finals. And that’s a testament to their consistency,” added Agarkar.
Meanwhile, New Zealand had beaten India by 2-0 in their home conditions in February-March 2020 and they had dominated the Virat Kohli-led team.
“They beat India comprehensively when India toured New Zealand and the conditions are likely to be very similar. So, India will have to play well to beat New Zealand in this contest,” said Agarkar.
Team India will reach England on June 3 and they will begin their preparations soon after their arrival. The World Test Championship final will take place at the Ageas Bowl, Southampton from June 18.
