Rajkot: India are poised for their third T20 international series triumph in five years but would be wary of a strong New Zealand fightback when the two sides clash in the second game of the three-match series here, Saturday.
The comprehensive 53-run victory in the series opener at New Delhi has put India firmly in the driver’s seat and they would like to continue their winning momentum for their first ever series win at home over the Kiwis.
The 2007 World T20 champions produced an impressive bowling performance in the last game after the batsmen had propelled the hosts to a 200-plus score. India would like to continue in the same vein, while the Kiwi bowlers would certainly want to stop a rampant Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan at the top of the order.
Indian spinners Yuzvendra Chahal and Axar Patel, also had bowled impressively in the middle stages of the innings. Left-arm spinner Patel told reporters here Friday that it is imperative for him to bowl well on a consistent basis as that would help him hold on to his place in the side.
“Look, I have been called a substitute for Ravindra Jadeja. Well, I don’t consider myself that,” Patel informed reporters. “If I bowl well in one game, I become an automatic choice for the next one. I’ve been chosen because of my performances, not because I am a substitute for someone else,” he added.
Patel was asked whether he gets any tips from head coach Ravi Shastri as the latter was also a left-arm spinner. “Not really on what and how to bowl. He gives me very important tips regarding the mental aspect of the game,” informed Patel. “He tells me ‘you know how to bowl, so do that without any fear’ and his complete backing does help me a lot,” added Patel.
Meanwhile Kiwi leg-spinner Ish Sodhi stated that his side were determined to make a comeback. “Every game we play we are determined to give our best,” Sodhi stated. “It is no use thinking about the last game… that’s history now. We will approach tomorrow’s game with a fresh mind and put our best foot forward,” he added.
Sodhi was quick to point out that any T20 game is all about momentum and India managed to wrest the initiative from them in the last game because of the momentum created by Rohit and Dhawan.
“We will have to bowl a better length and line certainly to stop them. Our bowlers are experienced enough and I am sure they will come with a good show,” Sodhi added.
Press trust of India