T20 WC 2021: Zaheer Khan warns team India to be wary of New Zealand’s fighting spirit
India is all set to lock horns with the Kane Williamson-led side for their second fixture of the T20 World Cup 2021. However, ahead of the match, former India pacer Zaheer Khan has asked team India to be wary of the Black Caps’ fighting spirit. He heaped praises on the team for exuding great character against Pakistan and warned India about the same.
In their last match against Pakistan, batting first New Zealand managed to put 134 on board. Though it was comparatively a low target, the team displayed some great promise on the field. Pakistan won the match by five wickets but New Zealand put up a great fight by clinching frequent wickets initially.
“One thing is sure is that New Zealand wants to win every match and have great enthusiasm. Yes, the Pakistan result didn’t go their way, but the fight that they showed was brilliant. They didn’t score many runs in the first innings, but the effort that they put in the bowling and fielding, states that they never ever lose their hope. And India should be wary about it,” Zaheer Khan said as quoted by HT.
It is always important for a side to catch up the winning momentum, says Zaheer
India had battled it out against Pakistan in their opening fixture of the mega event. Though India entered the contest as favourites, the Men in Green exuded their dominance by securing a historic victory by 10 wickets. Zaheer Khan feels that India is a strong contender and it is important for the side to get the winning momentum.
“We all know that if India plays to their potential, no team will find it easy to stand against. It is always important for a side to catch up with the winning momentum at the earliest, especially in the World Cup. This time India has lost their first match and should make sure it isn’t too late. The next game against New Zealand is a do or die one,” Zaheer Khan added.
The next game will be crucial for both India and New Zealand. Both of the teams have lost their previous matches and a defeat here will hamper their chances of making it to the semi-finals of the marquee event.