Ind vs NZ: First pic of special ball that will be used to play WTC final
The maiden edition of the World Test Championship (WTC) turned out to be a massive success, with experts and players giving a nod to the set-up that will decide the best team in the longest format of the game in a few days' time. That being the case, it was quite conspicuous that the setting and the build-up to WTC final between the two heavyweights India and New Zealand is expected to be an equally grand affair.
If the special kit were not a gesture strong enough, the New Zealand team on Tuesday, disclosed the first look of the ball that will be used in the WTC final. The 'red cherry' has 'ICC WTC Final 2021 India vs New Zealand' written on it, along with the ICC logo. Apart from the picture of the ball, The Kiwi’s also unveiled the jersey which would be worn during the final match.
New Zealand 🇳🇿 #WTC21 pic.twitter.com/ku2H7qryNX
— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) June 15, 2021
The much awaited WTC final between the two heavyweights would start on Friday at Southampton’s Ageas Bowl. Both the sides have picked their squad of 15 players for the big event. The Kiwis have been reinforced by the return of their skipper Kane Williamson and veteran wicketkeeper BJ Watling, for whom, the WTC final would be his last appearance for New Zealand. Both had been ruled out from the second Test against England due to injuries.
For the men in blues, the names of the 15 players which was put out was on expected. India did not add Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur, Washington Sundar, KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal, which means that Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill, who opened the innings in Australia and during the home series against England would once again be the openers.
For team India, New Zealand is their bogey team as far as ICC tournaments go. As a matter of fact, it was in 2003 that the men in blues last defeated the Kiwis in an ICC event. Ever since, New Zealand have defeated team India in the 2007 World T20, 2016 World T20 and the semi-final of the 2019 World Cup.
Apart from that, New Zealand is the only side India have not beaten during the inaugural World Test Championship tournament, losing to them 0-2 during their tour in early 2020.
Also Read: ICC interim CEO Allardice: All Test matches to carry same points per win in 2021-23 WTC
First published: 16 June 2021, 12:06 IST