Adapting to Mumbai Pitch Crucial for New Zealand's Series Whitewash, Says Coach Stead
Stead emphasized the significance of continual improvement for his team, stating, “A series win in itself is incredible, but what we want to do is keep trying to get better every game.” He acknowledged the distinct challenges posed by the different pitch conditions they will face in Mumbai compared to the previous venues, emphasizing the necessity for quick adaptation.
New Zealand's ambitions for a historic series whitewash in India hinge on their ability to adapt to the unique conditions of the Mumbai pitch, according to head coach Gary Stead. Following impressive victories in the first two matches, the Black Caps are eyeing a clean sweep against the hosts.
In the opening match held in Bengaluru, New Zealand secured a commanding eight-wicket win. They followed this up with a 113-run triumph in Pune, marking a significant achievement by halting India's impressive streak of 18 consecutive series victories on home soil, a run that dates back to 2012. The last time India suffered a whitewash at home was back in 2000 when they were beaten 2-0 by South Africa.
Stead emphasized the significance of continual improvement for his team, stating, “A series win in itself is incredible, but what we want to do is keep trying to get better every game.” He acknowledged the distinct challenges posed by the different pitch conditions they will face in Mumbai compared to the previous venues, emphasizing the necessity for quick adaptation.
The Wankhede Stadium's red clay pitch presents a stark contrast to the black soil pitches the team has recently played on. Stead pointed out that India had previously bested New Zealand at this venue, winning by 70 runs in the semifinals of the last Cricket World Cup and by an overwhelming 372 runs during their last Test encounter in 2021. “The red clay is very different, so we’re going to have to adapt quickly,” Stead noted, highlighting the importance of their upcoming training sessions in preparing for the match.
Securing another victory would not only solidify New Zealand's series win but also enhance their chances of qualifying for the World Test Championship (WTC) final next year. Currently, New Zealand is positioned fourth in the WTC standings and requires victories in both the third Test against India and in a subsequent series against England at home next month to improve their qualification prospects.
Reflecting on past experiences, Stead recalled how the team successfully navigated a similar situation while vying for the inaugural WTC final, stating, “The first time we were in the situation of qualifying for the first WTC final, we had to win four tests on the bounce and we managed to.” He expressed hope that this experience could inspire the team as they pursue another exceptional achievement.
The third Test is set to commence in Mumbai on Friday, with the New Zealand squad keen to carry their momentum forward and secure a historic series victory.
