New Zealand will play England in two Tests beginning on June 2 and then India in the final of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC), which will begin on June 18 in Southampton.
Southee was pleased with Jamieson’s refusal, calling it a “no-brainer”
Senior New Zealand bowler Tim Southee has praised Kyle Jamieson, who played for Royal Challengers Bangalore in the Indian Premier League (IPL), to gently refuse skipper Virat Kohli to bowl with a Dukes ball during the nets session ahead of the series and WTC final.
Kohli is recognized for being one of the smartest cricketers and being a world-class player. He wanted to obtain Jamieson’s views ahead of the big matchup between the two teams. The 26-year-old New Zealand player was aware of his RCB captain’s plans and refused the invitation. Southee was pleased with Jamieson’s refusal, calling it a “no-brainer.”
It was smart from Virat to see if he’d fall into the trap, but for Kyle?
“I’m pretty sure that story is true. But that would be the answer to most batsmen – why would you give them a look? It was smart from Virat to see if he’d fall into the trap but for Kyle, it was a no-brainer to not give the guy a glimpse of what he’ll be facing [in the final],” Southee told The Guardian ahead of the series opener against England.
Jamieson’s gracious denial pleased Australia and RCB allrounder Dan Christian, who said he showed a lot of character against a great player like Kohli. Jamieson has already impressed New Zealand management and selectors in his short Test career, taking 36 wickets at an incredible average of 13.27 in six Tests. He’s also an important part of the Blackcaps, having scored 226 runs at a 56.50 average. According to Southee, the inclusion of the lanky pacer has given the team an X-factor.
“But yes, a guy who bowls from 6ft 8in will only enhance any attack like ours. He’s a great kid and driven to improve. He swings the ball and always asks questions, bowling a full length. He’s invaluable with the bat too – a massive asset for the side,” Southee added.
Also read: Virat Kohli vs Kane Williamson: Statistical Comparison As Test Batsmen
