India’s Test specialist Cheteshwar Pujara will have a job on his hands for Team India when they face off in the World Test Championship final against New Zealand. The final will be played in Southampton from June 18 and 22 and Pujara believes that this Indian team can beat any side in the world anywhere and on any given conditions. Meanwhile, none of the teams will enjoy home advantage in the final as it is to be played at a neutral venue. Ahead of the final, Pujara opens up on India’s preparations and chances of winning the final.
In an exclusive interview with Times Of India, Cheteshwar Pujara opened up on how Team India is well prepared for the final and have their bases covered. He said that both teams are evenly matched which makes the WTC final and anticipated clash.
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“The Indian team has charted a remarkable journey in the last two years. We have played well to qualify for the final and everyone is looking forward to it. The India-New Zealand final will be a clash between two top-quality sides. It will definitely be a good game as both teams are evenly matched.”
India lost the Test series against New Zealand to start their WTC campaign. However, Pujara believes that will not be a botheration in the final given that none of the teams will have home advantage.
We Can Beat Any Side In The World: Cheteshwar Pujara
“I don’t think so. When we played the Kiwis in 2020, it was in their backyard. That won’t be the case in the WTC final since it’s a neutral venue for both the teams. None of the teams will have a home advantage. We have our bases covered and if we play to our potential – then we have the ability to beat any side in the world.”
When questioned on the preparation of the Indian batsmen against the Kiwi bowlers, Pujara said that the Indian batsmen have paced their bowlers previously. They have a good idea as to how they bowl and what are their strengths.
“Their bowling attack is very well-balanced. We have faced their bowlers before and have a fair idea of how they operate, the angles they use and we will be prepared.”
Pujara concluded by saying that India have the team to beat England in England. They recently beat them 3-1 at home and is confident in repeating the feat in the upcoming Test series.
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