IND vs NZ: Shane Bond Believes India Are Favorites Despite Not Having A Good Record Against New Zealand
Published - 22 Oct 2023, 03:10 PM | Updated - 23 Aug 2024, 12:21 AM
Former New Zealand pacer Shane Bond discussed the Black Caps’ strong record against the Men in Blue in recent ICC tournaments. Shane Bond believes that, as the host nation, India is the favorite in the ongoing ICC World Cup 2023 due to their excellent current form.
The Rohit Sharma-led team is scheduled to face the Tom Latham-led team in their fifth match of the tournament at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala on Sunday, October 22. The Black Caps hold a favorable record of 5-3 against the Men in Blue in ODI World Cup history.
History Doesn’t Really Count Too Much – Shane Bond
In a conversation with ESPNCricinfo, Shane Bond expressed his belief that historical records hold little significance in the upcoming World Cup match between India and New Zealand.
“Honestly, history doesn’t really count too much. I think India at home in the World Cup, and the way they’re playing, I still think they’re favorites. So at some point in time, something like that is going to be broken. No, I don’t think so. I’m just excited about the game because I think it’s going to be fantastic,” Bond told ESPNCricinfo.
The New Zealand cricket team defeated the Indian team in the semi-final of the last edition of the ODI World Cup in 2019. They also emerged victorious against the Indian team in the inaugural edition of the ICC World Test Championship final.
New Zealand Plays Consistent Cricket – Shane Bond
Shane Bond expressed that New Zealand consistently performs well due to their strong bowlers and experienced batting lineup. He emphasized that New Zealand is a formidable side to beat in the ongoing tournament.
“I just think New Zealand plays consistent cricket, and they have a couple of bowlers who can break the game. They also have a strong and experienced batting lineup. So, if their bowlers perform well and their batters have a good day, they are a tough team to beat,” Bond further added.
“Any opposition facing them needs to play exceptionally well to secure victories consistently over time. One advantage New Zealand has is that they’ve made it to the World Cup final, which gives them game experience. They are not intimidated by such situations and have the confidence to perform in big games.”
Also read: Shane Bond Ends Association With Mumbai Indians Franchise After Almost A Decade
