Virat Kohli
Virat Kohli. Credit: BCCI

Virat Kohli-led India are gearing up for their toughest test in the ongoing ICC Test Championship so far as they will take on New Zealand in a two-match series. So far, India have looked invincible in the Championship as they dismantled West Indies, South Africa and Bangladesh with ease. Virat Kohli and his teammates faced very little difficulty against the aforementioned opponents, whitewashing all of them.

The world number one Test side has won all of its seven games in the Test Championship so far. With 360 points, India are well placed at the top of the points table while New Zealand are at rooted at sixth spot with just 60 points from five games.

However, the past performance will count for little when both the teams lock horns in the upcoming series. India’s record in New Zealand is nothing less than dismal while the hosts rarely lose at home. Moreover, the momentum is also on New Zealand’s side after they whitewashed India in the three-match ODI series.

However, Virat Kohli has fired a timely warning at New Zealand ahead of the showdown in Tests. The India captain reiterated that his team is capable of competing against any team in any part of the world.

Read More  Win Nexon EV Prime XM car and other top prizes for betting on Indian T20 League!

“We have prepared in a manner where our fitness levels and concentration levels are such that we can compete against anyone in the world,” Virat Kohli said ahead of the first Test. “That’s the kind of confidence we will carry into this series.”

India
India (Credits: Twitter)

At the same time, he acknowledged that New Zealand will be a great challenge and different than what the likes of Australia and England offer. New Zealand’s record at home under Kane Williamson is really impressive. In 8 series played under Williamson’s captaincy since he took over from Brendon McCullum, New Zealand have managed to win the 7 series with their 1-0 win vs England at home in December 2019 being the latest triumph.

“Not saying this in a negative manner, but the crowd plays a massive role in England and Australia. You need to be in a zone where you need to be feisty and counter that from all angles,” he said.

“In New Zealand it’s all about cricket discipline and what the team brings on the field. They’re very intense and very fit guys and they can keep going all day and test your patience.

“They’re very skilled bowlers and batsmen and brilliant fielders so they don’t give a lot to bank on or pounce on. You need to be wary of the chances that come your way and be focused enough to capitalize.

Read More  Hanuma Vihari replies to Andhra Cricket Association's summon

“It takes a lot more concentration on the field in New Zealand rather than dealing with things off the field and that’s good for the players to be in that kind of zone. We are not the same team that we used to be. We have a very complete squad now,” he added.

Also Read: Virat Kohli To Retire From T20Is? India Skipper Answers