WTC Final: Lack of Match Practice Hurting Indian Pacers, Says Simon Doull

The Virat Kohli-led side’s last five-day match was against England in a 2-1 series win at home in March. “…at times you look and overthink and say ‘did they (India) have enough preparation?’ I think they did. I am sure in the last 10-12 days they would have bowled enough deliveries to make sure they are ready and raring to go,” Doull told Harsha Bhogle in a cricbuzz show. Also Read - WTC FINAL: Kyle Jamieson Breaks Several Records With Five-Wicket Haul Against India

Doull made the statement in reference to Indian pacers below-par display in New Zealand’s first innings score of 101 for 2 in reply to India’s 217 all out. The pace trio of Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma and Mohammed Shami failed to extract considerable amount of swing from the favourable Ageas Bowl conditions, unlike their Kiwi counterparts.

Kyle Jamieson (5/31), Neil Wagner (2/40) and Trent Boult (2/47) used the seaming conditions well to bundle out India for a timid total in the rain-affected match. Doull said New Zealand were definitely benefited by the two games against England ahead of the marquee clash.