As New Zealand prepares for a highly anticipated Test series against India, fast bowler Tim Southee shares his thoughts on the challenges his team will face. Known for his exceptional bowling skills, Southee is set to achieve a milestone of 400 Test wickets, making him only the second New Zealand bowler to reach this landmark after Sir Richard Hadlee.
However, Southee and his team are well aware of the challenge that lies ahead. India, a powerhouse in world cricket, has been dominant in the Test format on home soil. The Kiwi pacer spoke about the difficulties of playing in India, the strengths of both teams, and how New Zealand plans to overcome the odds.
Facing India: A Tough Challenge for New Zealand
New Zealand has not won a Test series in India since 1988. The conditions are drastically different from what they’re used to back home, and the Indian team is formidable in all formats of the game, especially on their own pitches. Southee acknowledges that it’s going to be a tough battle but is optimistic about his team’s preparation.
“Playing in India is always a challenge,” Southee said. “The pitches, the weather, everything is different from what we experience in New Zealand. But we’ve been touring the subcontinent for the last few months, and we are adapting to the conditions. We know India is a strong team, but we’re excited about the series.”
The Kohli Factor: Facing One of Cricket’s Best
The conversation inevitably turned to Indian star Virat Kohli. Despite Kohli’s recent dip in form, Southee is full of praise for the former Indian captain. Kohli remains a crucial part of the “Fab Four” of Test cricket, alongside Kane Williamson, Joe Root, and Steve Smith.
“Kohli is an exceptional player. His records speak for themselves. People often forget how high he has set the bar for himself, so even the slightest dip in form gets noticed. But Kohli has always bounced back, and that’s what makes him one of the best. As a bowler, I relish the challenge of bowling to him because you always have to be at your best,” said Southee.
Leadership Styles: Calm Rohit vs. Passionate Kohli
Southee also shared his views on the leadership styles of Indian captain Rohit Sharma and former skipper Virat Kohli. Having played under Rohit’s captaincy for the Mumbai Indians in the IPL, Southee believes Rohit’s calm demeanor sets him apart from other captains.
“Rohit is very calm on the field. He understands the game really well and has the respect of his teammates. His leadership is very different from Kohli’s. Where Kohli is passionate and energetic, Rohit is composed. Both styles work, and they both command respect from their teams,” Southee explained.
India’s Bowling Attack: A Formidable Force
India’s current bowling attack is one of the strongest in the world. The combination of three world-class spinners and a fast bowling trio led by Jasprit Bumrah makes them a tough team to face. Southee acknowledges the difficulty of playing against such a well-rounded bowling unit.
“India has always had great spinners, but now their fast bowlers are also top-notch. Bumrah, Shami, and Siraj have shown their skills not just in India but all around the world. Bumrah, in particular, has been exceptional. Even though Shami is not playing right now, he’s still a fantastic bowler. It will be a tough challenge to face them, especially on Indian pitches,” Southee said.
New Zealand’s Preparation and Strategy
New Zealand is focusing on adapting to the conditions in India. Southee believes that being on tour in the subcontinent over the last few months has helped his team get accustomed to the heat, humidity, and spin-friendly pitches. The Kiwis are preparing themselves mentally and physically for the intense competition they’ll face in India.
“We know it’s not going to be easy, but we’re prepared. We’ve been in the subcontinent for a while now, and we’re getting used to the conditions. It’s all about adapting quickly and staying focused,” said Southee.
Fast Bowlers Thriving on Indian Pitches
Interestingly, Indian pitches, traditionally known for spin, are now offering more opportunities for fast bowlers. Southee points out that India’s own fast bowling attack is thriving on home soil, a trend that could benefit New Zealand as well.
“Earlier, you’d think of India as a country of spinners, but now you see fast bowlers playing a bigger role. In the past, it was rare to see more than one fast bowler in the playing XI, but now India often plays three. This shows how much the game has evolved, and we’re ready to take advantage of any opportunities that come our way,” Southee noted.
What Southee Appreciates About India
When asked about his experiences in India, Southee humorously mentioned the traffic but quickly added that he has nothing but admiration for the country and its love for cricket.
“The traffic can be a bit overwhelming,” Southee joked, “but seriously, there’s nothing I dislike about India. The passion for cricket here is incredible. Every time we play in front of packed stadiums, the atmosphere is electric. It’s always a pleasure to play in a country that loves the game so much.”
