WTC Final – India has not had any Test cricket in recent times – Ajit Agarkar feels NZ bowlers could trouble Indian batsmen

India last played Test cricket back in March 2021 against England in the home conditions. They played away from home in Australia, where the conditions are completely different from England.

Former Indian fast bowler Ajit Agarkar has stated that India has not had any Test cricket in recent times and the New Zealand fast bowlers could trouble them.

Agarkar added that the Kiwis have the variety in their pace attack and they can cause problems. Kyle Jamieson has the height advantage and can create issues for the Indian team with his extra bounce.

“The Dukes ball does swing around, so the challenges are a lot and more so because India has not had any Test cricket in recent times, not had Test cricket away from home since that Australia tour and Australian conditions are completely different,” said Agarkar on Star Sports.

Tim Southee and Trent Boult, both have the experience under their belt and can also trouble the Indian batsmen with their swing and pace. Boult can get the bowl to move back into the right-handers and he can be deadly with the red ball. Furthermore, there is Neil Wagner, who is known to bowl long spells and he can hit the deck hard on a consistent basis.

“It has certainly got a lot of variety. Because if you look at someone like a Jamieson, who is a tall guy, will pose a different challenge. Boult and Southee, one coming into you and the other going away from you as a right-hander,” said Agarkar.

“And then Wagner, when nothing is happening and everything seems flat he comes and does something and he has been doing it on a regular basis,” added Ajit Agarkar.

Agarkar added that the English conditions are similar to New Zealand and thus Kane Williamson’s team could have the advantage.

“So the challenges are a bit different. Also what works in their favor is the conditions. Because you are playing in England, it is almost like what you get in New Zealand, that makes it a little easier,” signed off Agarkar.

The WTC final will take place at Ageas Bowl, Southampton from June 18,