T20 World Cup 2021: Zaheer Khan Feels The Game Against New Zealand Will Be A Do-or-Die One For India

Former Indian seamer Zaheer Khan sees the contest against New Zealand for India tomorrow in the T20 World Cup 2021 will be a must-win situation considering Pakistan’s progress. India suffered a humiliating defeat in the hands of Pakistan in their opening encounter of the T20 World cup 2021 fixture, and this is the first time India had lost a game to Pakistan in a world cup fixture.

Since winning India, Pakistan has gone on to win the likes of New Zealand and Afghanistan and is looking strong to make it to the semi-finals from group 2. However, with the other spot in the fray, India- New Zealand contest will have a huge say in determining that spot, and it is expected to be of high intensity as well. India will face New Zealand tomorrow at the Dubai International stadium.

Zaheer Khan Credits New Zealand For Keeping The Fight Going

Zaheer Khan was impressed with the way the Kiwis turned up while bowling in the second innings as they dented the Pakistan batting order with regular wickets. They almost got ahead of the game until Shoaib Malik and Asif Ali finished off the game. It is important to know that New Zealand will be the more confident team than India despite the Indian side looking strong on paper.

“Yes, the Pakistan result didn’t go their way, but the fight that they showed was brilliant. This time India have 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 said on Cricbuzz.

Hardik Pandya Likely To Bowl In The Game Against New Zealand

Hardik Pandya has been bowling in the nets after a long time, and that is certainly good news for the Indian side struggling to find balance. With Hardik, not bowling, India hasn’t had the luxury of a sixth bowler, which might be handy for the skipper, and it will be a great boost if Hardik starts bowling again.

Hardik did not bowl in the IPL 2021 UAE phase for the Mumbai Indians, and it will be very valuable even if he can contribute two overs.

Also read – Major Boost To Bengal Cricket Association As Eden Gardens Will Operate At 70% Capacity During India-New Zealand T20I