NEW DELHI: Former Australian cricketer Matthew Hayden believes India’s recent 3-0 Test series defeat to New Zealand, though disappointing, might ultimately benefit them ahead of the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
Speaking to the Sydney Morning Herald, Hayden described the whitewash as “the kick up the a*se that India need.” He noted, “Even though India copped a drubbing and were lightweight in terms of performance, playing long-format cricket gives them a preparation advantage.”
India’s loss to New Zealand marked a historic low. The Black Caps sealed the clean sweep with a 25-run victory in the third Test at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium.
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This was India’s first home Test series whitewash in over two decades and their first-ever in a three-Test series or more.
The result has led to significant introspection within the Indian camp as they prepare for the marquee series against Australia.
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The Border-Gavaskar Trophy begins on November 22 in Perth, with both teams aiming to assert dominance.
Hayden suggested that India’s recent exposure to red-ball cricket might give them a leg up in adapting to the demands of the Test format, unlike Australia, who haven’t played long-format games recently.
He remarked that India’s struggles could serve as a wake-up call, motivating them to bounce back stronger against a formidable Australian side.
The series promises a packed itinerary, beginning with the opening Test in Perth. The second Test, from December 6-10, will be a day-night clash at Adelaide Oval, under lights.
The contest then shifts to Brisbane’s Gabba (December 14-18) before the iconic Boxing Day Test at Melbourne Cricket Ground (December 26-30). The series finale at the Sydney Cricket Ground from January 3-7 could well be the decider.