Aakash Chopra Feels New Zealand Under ‘More Pressure’. The Day-3 of the WTC Final clash between India and New Zealand made the Kiwis to be the upper hand. India started the day with 146/3 but they lost the wickets rapidly and could post 217 runs for a complete sweep on the scoreboard in the first innings. Following this, New Zealand post 101 runs with 2-wickets in the form of Tom Latham and Devon Conway.
WTC Final 2021: Aakash Chopra Feels New Zealand Under ‘More Pressure’ Than India Despite Being On Top
The Blackcaps have taken the lead after a strong third-day performance, but former Indian cricketer and respected commentator Aakash Chopra feels Kane Williamson’s side would face more pressure than Virat Kohli’s team. Chopra feels that New Zealand’s batting lineup will collapse similarly to India’s on day four.
The expert believes that New Zealand will collapse on Day four and will not be able to capitalise on their lead. “They (New Zealand) also have to look at where India was. They were 146 for 3, two set batsmen but come next morning, it’s a different world altogether.
“The ball is moving again, you find the edges, India’s tail hasn’t wagged, the middle-order has collapsed and you haven’t reached where you wanted to reach. Similar things can unfold tomorrow as well,” Chopra told in an interview after the action of Day 3.
‘Keep in mind, the moment you bowl first, you have to bat last’- Aakash Chopra
During the conversation, Chopra also stated that the playing conditions might be beneficial to the Kiwis, as Indian bowlers can unsettle them with their swing and pace. Also, against a side like India, the Blackcaps must build a lead of at least 150 runs, as a 30-40 run lead is insignificant.
“So from a New Zealand point of view, they know they are not out of the woods at all. Keep in mind, the moment you bowl first, you have to bat last and you have to bat the opposition out. So a 30-40 run lead is insignificant. You have to take at least a 150-run lead to make a match of it, seal the advantage of bowling first.
“Things might change, Ashwin has already got a wicket. He is getting a bit of turn. Swing is the only area where Indian bowlers are lagging behind, not the discipline nor the effort. Ishant was the only Indian bowler who was able to swing. Tomorrow is the day where India fast bowlers need to find a swing. If they are able to do that, the match will swing in India’s favor,” Chopra added.
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