"Might Awaken Sleeping Giant": Josh Hazlewood on India's Shocking Loss to New Zealand

Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood believes India's crushing 3-0 series loss to New Zealand could have a profound effect, potentially "awakening a sleeping giant" ahead of the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy. India suffered the humiliation of a whitewash on home soil, marking their first-ever such defeat in Test history, which has also put their qualification for the World Test Championship final in jeopardy.

Hazlewood acknowledged that India's confidence would likely have been shaken by the heavy losses, but he also warned that this might spur them to respond strongly when they face Australia later this month. "It might awaken a sleeping giant, so to speak. We'll see that when they come out," Hazlewood said.

The series defeat has dropped India from the top spot in the WTC standings, and they now need to win four of their five upcoming Tests against Australia to make it to the final. Hazlewood noted that while the results in India are favorable for Australia, they shouldn’t be taken too lightly. "The confidence might have taken a bit of a hit. A lot of them have been out here, but there are a few batters who haven't, so they'll be a bit unsure of what to expect," he added.

Hazlewood praised New Zealand's remarkable achievement, saying that winning 3-0 in India was "unbelievable." As Australia prepares to host India for a five-match Test series starting November 22, Hazlewood is anticipating massive crowds and high television ratings. "Every time we play India, it's right up there with the Ashes," he said.

Hazlewood, who has been recovering from injury, has returned to form and will be ready for Australia's second ODI against Pakistan in Adelaide.