ICC T20 World Cup 2021: 3 Reasons Why New Zealand Can Beat India In The Group Stage

New Zealand has been the bogey team for India in the ICC tournaments, mainly on the last two occasions, even amid India’s dominant run. India’s defeats at the 2019 World Cup semi-final and the World Test Championship final are still fresh in the Indian fans’ hearts. Despite not starting at firm favourites, the Kiwis managed to overcome India in their last two ICC clashes.

With India grouped with New Zealand in the second group, the latter should have a slight upper hand, albeit based on history. Notably, New Zealand has won both their T20 World Cup encounters against India. While the men in blue should fancy their chances against their four more opponents, the Black Caps remain a massive threat. Kane Williamson’s men should fancy their chance once more this year.

We take a look at three reasons why New Zealand could beat India at the group stage of the ICC T20 World Cup 2021:

Better Tailenders:

For a long time, India’s tailenders have come under criticism as they have been unable to offer the resistance needed if the top order collapses. The likes of Mohammed Shami, Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah, and Kuldeep Yadav are not reliable enough to survive for five or overs if needed.

In contrast, the Kiwis are advantageous in this aspect. New Zealand bat as deep as capable of playing the likes of Kyle Jamieson, Tim Southee, and Mitchell Santner at number seven, eight, and nine. Thus, all these players can play according to the situation and turn the tide in their team’s favour significantly.

Kane Williamson thrives slightly better in tactical decisions:

New Zealand captain Kane Williamson is one of the most astute captains today. The 30-year old has continued to take New Zealand to greater heights since taking charge from Brendon McCullum in 2016. While his decisions are aggressive, Williamson is always calm on the outside.

Aside from that, the Kiwi skipper is a brilliant tactician on the field. While Virat Kohli hardly lacks anything as the leader, the 32-year old’s tactical and selection errors have often cost India crucial games. On that note, New Zealand has a better chance of ousting India.

Psychological edge:

While this factor might not significantly impact the clash between India and New Zealand, it does matter to an extent. As previously mentioned, India has never beaten New Zealand in the T20 World Cup, while the Kiwis have overcome the men in blue in their last two ICC matches.

Also, despite not starting as overwhelming favourites, New Zealand defeated India. The Kiwis seem to play with the utmost calmness and level-headedness needed to crack India’s game in the global events. Thus, their recent record at the ICC events spell trouble for India.

Also Read: ICC T20 World Cup 2021: 3 Reasons Why India Can Beat Pakistan In The Group Stage