NAGPUR, Nov. 19: New Zealand might have exceeded expectations but skipper Daniel Vettori continues to be a tough task master. Coming to India in the wake of an embarrassing 0-4 loss to Bangladesh, the Black Caps have redeemed their reputation in the two Tests, and the tie-breaker will be a hard grind.
Vettori is hoping his side can make the final dash. The spinner also confirmed that suggestions of sledging in the second Test was pure misunderstanding and little else in speaking to the media here on Friday. Excerpts:
On the favourites here: We want to continue with the hard work and not get ahead of ourselves. We are certainly excited to be in this position but it is for the media to decide on who the favourite is. We just have to come back a little harder. We still expect India to be at their best and we know that they have got some amazing players. We are fairly sure to know what to expect.
On India’s attack minus Zaheer: We will sit back and see whom India bring into the team. We have some information about the newcomer. Obviously Zaheer will be missed, particularly with his ability to reverse. I think Ishant Sharma will come in. He has proved himself as well and he will be another challenge but the guys played him in our home series and we can use that.
On the pitch and playing XI: We can only go by history. Jason Krejza got wickets here and Dale Steyn also bowled well.
It looks like there might be a little bit in it for the bowlers, probably a little more pace, but once again, it will unfold as the Test match goes on. To be honest, I hate to predict wickets. As far the team is concerned Andy McKay will definitely come into our calculations.