(Reuters) – New Zealand’s ambition to secure a remarkable series whitewash in India hinges on their ability to adapt to the unique conditions of the Mumbai pitch, according to head coach Gary Stead.
The Black Caps have made a strong start in the series, having defeated India by eight wickets in Bengaluru during the first match. They followed this impressive performance with a commanding victory in Pune, where they won by 113 runs, marking a significant milestone by halting India’s remarkable home streak of 18 consecutive series wins dating back to 2012. The last time India faced a clean sweep at home was in 2000, when they were defeated 2-0 by South Africa.
“A series win in itself is incredible, but what we want to do is keep trying to get better every game, and we’re facing different circumstances now,” Stead expressed to New Zealand media. He emphasized the importance of continuous improvement as the team prepares for the challenges ahead.
Another victory in the series would not only be a historic achievement but would also enhance New Zealand’s prospects of qualifying for the World Test Championship (WTC) final scheduled for next year. Stead pointed out the crucial need for the team to acclimatize to the distinct playing conditions of the Wankhede Stadium, where the red clay pitch presents a stark contrast to the black soil surfaces they have encountered in their initial victories.
Stead recalled the team’s previous encounters at Wankhede Stadium, where they suffered a 70-run defeat to India in the semi-finals of last year’s Cricket World Cup and faced a staggering 372-run loss in the Test format in 2021. “The red clay is very different, so we’re going to have to adapt quickly,” he stated. “Our next two training sessions will be critical, but for the WTC itself, there’s no doubt that one more win would certainly help us.”
Currently, New Zealand sits fourth in the WTC standings and needs to overcome both India and England in the three Tests set to take place at home next month to bolster their chances of finishing in the top two.
Reflecting on the team’s resilience, Stead recalled their previous journey to qualify for the inaugural WTC final, where they managed to win four consecutive Tests. “Hopefully, that’s something we can lean on and say, ‘we’ve done it before, here’s an opportunity to perhaps do something very special again,’” he added, conveying a sense of optimism and determination.
As the team gears up for the third Test, which commences in Mumbai on Friday, the focus will undoubtedly be on adapting quickly to the new conditions to seize the moment and achieve an unprecedented series whitewash.
