Tim Southee lamented his team’s demanding schedule for their poor performance in the ongoing three-match series between India and New Zealand.
As the hosts gained a commanding 2-0 lead over New Zealand in the three-match Twenty20 series, New Zealand skipper Tim Southee believes that the team’s tight schedule hindered its ability to adjust to the challenging Indian conditions. Less than 24 hours after the World Cup final, New Zealand arrived in India. The Kiwis suffered their second defeat in a row, losing by seven wickets to India in the second Twenty20 International on Friday, just three days after the T20 World Cup final.
According to Southee at the post-match press conference: “It’s been a stressful schedule coming off T20 World Cup, I simply don’t think we were able to adjust to the surface well enough.”
Rohit Sharma, the new captain of India’s Twenty20 team, won both tosses and led his team to victory in both matches. After a blistering start, the Kiwis could only manage 153/6 in their first innings on Friday, despite scoring more than 10 runs per over in the powerplay.
With 16 balls to spare, India took a commanding 2-0 lead entering the final T20I against Pakistan.
“Throughout the night, there was a lot of dew, which had an effect on both sides. Training with a wet ball is difficult, but you can obviously do so if you want, but we can’t quite get used to it. Our opponents, the Indians, deserved credit for outplaying us “According to what Southee had to say.
“To put them under pressure, we wanted to take early wickets. During our innings, I was just trying to copy what they were doing, which was a challenge for me.
“Our spinners had a difficult time controlling the ball. However, as I have stated, they were simply too good tonight “he commented.
Southee intends to end the season on a good note before the two-Test series, notwithstanding the defeat.
“Getting one final push before we leave for home is the goal. This is an opportunity to show your patriotism yet again. There is no need for additional motivation on your part to get out of bed.
“With a packed house, it’s a terrific opportunity to play cricket tonight. It’s a wonderful setting, and I have no doubt the band will be able to capitalize on it and conclude the tour strongly “He gave his approval by signing his name.
