The ICC World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand is just around the corner. The cricketing fraternity is eager to express their opinion on the discussion around the possible advantages either of the teams have.
Although it’s hard to pick a favorite, many of them feel it’s New Zealand who hold the upper hand. This is considering the fact that they’re playing against England beforehand, in a two-Test series. And VVS Laxman was one of the people who agreed to it.
India will take time to get used to the new conditions – VVS Laxman
The former batsman, who played 134 Test matches for India, believes New Zealand will be better adjusted to the conditions. Match practice is usually a vital factor in determining who wins, according to VVS Laxman.
“Well, theoretically, that’s (England series) an advantage for New Zealand, because whenever you play any Test match in overseas conditions, you at least would like to play one – if not two matches before the main match,” he said.
“There’s no doubt it helps you to get acclimatized to the conditions. That’s always been the norm for so many years. Especially for the batsmen, it will take time to get used to the new conditions. So theoretically, New Zealand has the advantage,” he opined.
VVS Laxman also said even though the Black Caps have an advantage, India won’t back down from a fight. He gave the example of the Border-Gavaskar trophy held in Australia recently.
“But India has not taken a backward step, irrespective of whatever challenges they have faced. The series win in Australia was a testament to their character and their positive mindset,” he said.
“So even though theoretically, New Zealand – who is already accustomed to the English conditions – may have the advantage, I am sure the Indian team will have intense training sessions before the final,” Laxman concluded.