Former cricketers have their say on New Zealand whitewashing India in Test series

Team India suffered a humiliating defeat in the two match Test series what concluded the lengthy New Zealand tour. While coming off from a 3-0 ODI whitewash, the fans were expecting a turnaround for the ICC no. 1 Test team, but unfortunately a lacklustre batting performance saw India subjugating to a spellbound Kiwi squad. While the visitors are on high criticism from the fans and pundits, former cricketing icons of the country have come forward to state their dispute for the woeful defeat.

Across both Tests, India failed to rack up a substantial total. Although the bowlers put up a comparatively better spell, Indian batsmen were overpowered in front of the Kiwi bowlers. Following the closure of the series today, several former Team India internationals have taken it to social media to express their disdain on the squad.

VVS Laxman, India’s iconic former Test batsman commented on the Men in Blue’s lack of composure on the field. He wrote: “Many congratulations to the @BLACKCAPS on beating India and winning the Test series comprehensively. India couldn’t show the discipline required to stick it out and will be deeply disappointed. #NZvIND”

Bishan Singh Bedi, the iconic spinner tweeted his irritation on New Zealand dominating over India, who is ranked 1st in ICC’s Men’s Test Team Rankings: “How does one explain complete Kiwi dominance over No1 Test team..?!! Am struggling to press the right button..could someone pl help without being abusive or atrociously unkind to any individual..?!!”

However, the veteran also commended the hosts for their marvellous display on the pitch: “Meanwhile let’s praise NZ fr cool & calculated commitment..& staying Calm/Humble!”

In both tests, the lower order Kiwi batsmen thrashed the Indian bowlers. Kyle Jamieson, the young pacer showed his prowess with the bat, putting up near fifty scores in both matches, coming in at 9th. Stunning knocks were also seen from Colin de Grandhomme, the all rounder who comes in at 7. Cricket commentator and former international Aakash Chopra pointed this out, and also mentioned how the Indian bowlers failed against them.

“India under Kohli competed in most Tests overseas….but this series was different. India only participated. Batting and the inability to dismiss NZ’s lower-order let India down. #NZvInd” Chopra tweeted.

Former international Sanjay Manjrekar also had the same notion for India being unable to pick up the New Zealand’s tail ending run machines. In a Twitter session, the 54 year old raised his points about India’s performance.

He wrote: “Trying too hard to get the tail out? Best to stick with normal plans that you have for top order. Tail Enders now are not so easy to dismiss with a bouncer followed by a Yorker.”

The commentator also mentioned how making plans in tours is futile and how the Indian players need to ‘reinvent’ themselves when facing teams in unfamiliar away conditions.

“It’s not just about planning. It’s about making the best with what you have. Indian conditions throw up certain kind of players with certain instincts and styles. Go to NZ you have to reinvent yourself. So it will be a constant testing of players as to who can do that.” Manjrekar tweeted.

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