India’s Overconfidence Costs Them Historic Home Series Loss to New Zealand
India’s Overconfidence Led to Historic Home Series Loss to New Zealand
Former Pakistan batter Basit Ali has attributed India’s first home series loss in 12 years to overconfidence and a lack of preparation. After a convincing victory in the opening Test in Bengaluru, New Zealand stunned India with a three-day triumph in the second Test in Pune, securing their maiden series win in India.
Ali believes that India’s recent success against Bangladesh and New Zealand’s struggles in Sri Lanka contributed to their complacency. However, the Kiwis meticulously studied India’s weaknesses and exploited them ruthlessly in the first two Tests.
“India’s batting was exposed,” Ali said. “In the first match, Kiwi pacers took 17 wickets. In the second Test, spinners took 19 wickets. India players were neither able to play pacers well nor spinners.”
Ali also criticized India’s management for not adequately preparing for the series. “The match India won against Bangladesh in two days and New Zealand’s 2-0 defeat in Sri Lanka, the team might have thought they would beat the Kiwis easily,” he said. “This means, Indian management and Indian players were overconfident.”
Ali expressed concern over India’s bowling attack for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia. With Mohammed Shami absent from the squad, Ali believes India will face significant challenges Down Under.
“I am surprised why there is no Mohammed Shami in the squad for the Australia tour,” Ali said. “You have put all the load on Bumrah. Without Shami, India might face problems in Australia.”
The first BGT Test commences from November 22 in Perth, and India will need to address their weaknesses and regain their focus if they hope to avoid another disappointing series loss.
