India finished the debut ICC World Test Championship as runners-up regardless of topping the league stage. Team India endured an eight-wicket rout to New Zealand in the last match played at the Rose Bowl in Southampton.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-will-not-wait-for-a-year-virat-kohli-hints-changes-after-wtc-final-loss-393748" hreflang="en">'We will not wait for a year': Virat Kohli hints changes after WTC Final loss</a>

India were quite possibly the most reliable side in the competition, however, the team couldn't carry its 'A' game to the table when it made a difference the most. Tea, India will be pleased with the manner in which they performed and will be anxious to convey the momentum into the new pattern of the World Test Championship.&nbsp;

This new cycle will begin in July 2021 and end in 2023. Every country will play three home series and three away series. With India's 2021-23 Future Tour Programs having been delivered a couple of years prior, here's a glance at the team's schedule for the subsequent World Test Championship.

The Indian cricket crew will start off its new World Test Championship crusade with a five-Test series against England in the United Kingdom. The series is planned to start on August 4 and end on September 14.&nbsp;

August 4-8: England versus India, First Test, Trent Bridge&nbsp; 
August 12-16: England versus India, Second Test, Lord's&nbsp; 
August 25-29: England versus India, Third Test, Headingley&nbsp; 
September 2-6: England versus India, Fourth Test, Kennington Oval&nbsp; 
September 10-14: England versus India, Fifth Test, Old Trafford&nbsp;

New Zealand visit through India, 2021&nbsp;

India lost every one of the three of their Tests against New Zealand in the first World Test Championship. Nonetheless, Team India will have a chance to vindicate those misfortunes not long from now. According to the Future Tour Programs plan, the Kiwis will visit India for a two-Test series in November 2021.&nbsp;

India visit through South Africa, 2021/22&nbsp;

Subsequent to playing a two-match Test series against New Zealand, the Indian cricket team will travel to South Africa for a three-Test series. The series among India and South Africa is planned to happen in December 2021 and January 2022.&nbsp;

Sri Lanka visit through India, 2022&nbsp;

Not long before the IPL 2022, Sri Lanka will visit India to play a three-match ICC World Test Championship series and a three-match T20I series. They will think that its extreme to make life surprisingly difficult for India in home conditions.&nbsp;

Australia visit through India, 2022&nbsp;

Australia will visit India for a four-Test series in 2022. The Border-Gavaskar Trophy will happen in India around October and November one year from now.&nbsp;

India visit through Bangladesh, 2022&nbsp;

India will end their league stage of the World Test Championship with a fight against Bangladesh. Virat Kohli's side will play two Tests against Bangladesh soon after the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

&nbsp;

India finished the debut ICC World Test Championship as runners-up regardless of topping the league stage. Team India endured an eight-wicket rout to New Zealand in the last match played at the Rose Bowl in Southampton.

India finished the debut ICC World Test Championship as runners-up regardless of topping the league stage. Team India endured an eight-wicket rout to New Zealand in the last match played at the Rose Bowl in Southampton. ALSO READ: 'We will not wait for a year': Virat Kohli hints changes after WTC Final loss India were quite possibly the most reliable side in the competition, however, the team couldn't carry its 'A' game to the table when it made a difference the most. Tea, India will be pleased with the manner in which they performed and will be anxious to convey the momentum into the new pattern of the World Test Championship. This new cycle will begin in July 2021 and end in 2023. Every country will play three home series and three away series. With India's 2021-23 Future Tour Programs having been delivered a couple of years prior, here's a glance at the team's schedule for the subsequent World Test Championship. The Indian cricket crew will start off its new World Test Championship crusade with a five-Test series against England in the United Kingdom. The series is planned to start on August 4 and end on September 14. August 4-8: England versus India, First Test, Trent Bridge August 12-16: England versus India, Second Test, Lord's August 25-29: England versus India, Third Test, Headingley September 2-6: England versus India, Fourth Test, Kennington Oval September 10-14: England versus India, Fifth Test, Old Trafford New Zealand visit through India, 2021 India lost every one of the three of their Tests against New Zealand in the first World Test Championship. Nonetheless, Team India will have a chance to vindicate those misfortunes not long from now. According to the Future Tour Programs plan, the Kiwis will visit India for a two-Test series in November 2021. India visit through South Africa, 2021/22 Subsequent to playing a two-match Test series against New Zealand, the Indian cricket team will travel to South Africa for a three-Test series. The series among India and South Africa is planned to happen in December 2021 and January 2022. Sri Lanka visit through India, 2022 Not long before the IPL 2022, Sri Lanka will visit India to play a three-match ICC World Test Championship series and a three-match T20I series. They will think that its extreme to make life surprisingly difficult for India in home conditions. Australia visit through India, 2022 Australia will visit India for a four-Test series in 2022. The Border-Gavaskar Trophy will happen in India around October and November one year from now. India visit through Bangladesh, 2022 India will end their league stage of the World Test Championship with a fight against Bangladesh. Virat Kohli's side will play two Tests against Bangladesh soon after the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

Cricket: Team India's schedule for 2021-23 World Test Championship cycle

VVS Laxman trusts Team India will be distressed by the way where their batting fell on the reserve day of the World Test Championship final against New Zealand. The previous Indian batsman featured how the Men dressed in Blue batted better in many unfavourable conditions in the primary innings, setting up a sum of 217 runs.&nbsp;

Although, India was packaged out for only 170 in their second innings in what should be the greatest day for batting, with splendid daylight around Southampton.&nbsp;

VVS Laxman expressed that New Zealand uncovered some specialized deficiencies in India's batting line-up which Virat Kohli and co. should address prior to taking on England in a five-Test arrangement, beginning in August.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-will-not-wait-for-a-year-virat-kohli-hints-changes-after-wtc-final-loss-393748" hreflang="en">'We will not wait for a year': Virat Kohli hints changes after WTC Final loss</a>

Writing in his section for the Times of India, VVS Laxman clarified:&nbsp;"India will be hurting, especially at their ordinary second-innings batting performance. They had handled more difficult conditions in the first innings with greater aplomb, but in the best batting conditions of the Test on Day 6, they didn't do enough to even secure a draw that would have given them a share of the spoils. For a team that prides itself on taking adversity in its stride, the manner of the defeat rather than the result itself must be galling. New Zealand exposed a few technical inadequacies in the top order that England must have taken note of."

India, at last, lost the last by eight wickets, with New Zealand winning their second-since forever ICC prize all the while. By chance, the Kiwis additionally improved India in the 2000 ICC Champions Trophy last.&nbsp;

Following the loss, Indian captain Virat Kohli implied that tough calls will be taken. Virat Kohli expressed that Team India would hope to reassess and rethink and get the correct individuals who have the right outlook to perform.&nbsp;

VVS Laxman additionally repeated comparable slants and felt the Indian group the executives should think about some troublesome choices soon. He composed:&nbsp; "India has plenty of issues to address between now and the start of the five-Test series. They will contemplate some hard decisions, as Virat has already indicated, but knowing the team, I am sure they will use the Southampton Test as a spur to greater things."

India's visit through England is simply beginning as they will presently take on the host country in a five-match Test series, beginning on 4 August. Team India was thoroughly beaten by a 4-1 edge in the Test arrangement the last time they visited England in 2018.

VVS Laxman trusts Team India will be distressed by the way where their batting fell on the reserve day of the World Test Championship final against New Zealand. The previous Indian batsman featured how the Men dressed in Blue batted better in many unfavourable conditions in the primary innings, setting up a sum of 217 runs.

VVS Laxman trusts Team India will be distressed by the way where their batting fell on the reserve day of the World Test Championship final against New Zealand. The previous Indian batsman featured how the Men dressed in Blue batted better in many unfavourable conditions in the primary innings, setting up a sum of 217 runs. Although, India was packaged out for only 170 in their second innings in what should be the greatest day for batting, with splendid daylight around Southampton. VVS Laxman expressed that New Zealand uncovered some specialized deficiencies in India's batting line-up which Virat Kohli and co. should address prior to taking on England in a five-Test arrangement, beginning in August. ALSO READ: 'We will not wait for a year': Virat Kohli hints changes after WTC Final loss Writing in his section for the Times of India, VVS Laxman clarified: "India will be hurting, especially at their ordinary second-innings batting performance. They had handled more difficult conditions in the first innings with greater aplomb, but in the best batting conditions of the Test on Day 6, they didn't do enough to even secure a draw that would have given them a share of the spoils. For a team that prides itself on taking adversity in its stride, the manner of the defeat rather than the result itself must be galling. New Zealand exposed a few technical inadequacies in the top order that England must have taken note of." India, at last, lost the last by eight wickets, with New Zealand winning their second-since forever ICC prize all the while. By chance, the Kiwis additionally improved India in the 2000 ICC Champions Trophy last. Following the loss, Indian captain Virat Kohli implied that tough calls will be taken. Virat Kohli expressed that Team India would hope to reassess and rethink and get the correct individuals who have the right outlook to perform. VVS Laxman additionally repeated comparable slants and felt the Indian group the executives should think about some troublesome choices soon. He composed: "India has plenty of issues to address between now and the start of the five-Test series. They will contemplate some hard decisions, as Virat has already indicated, but knowing the team, I am sure they will use the Southampton Test as a spur to greater things." India's visit through England is simply beginning as they will presently take on the host country in a five-match Test series, beginning on 4 August. Team India was thoroughly beaten by a 4-1 edge in the Test arrangement the last time they visited England in 2018.

Cricket: India will use the Southampton Test as a spur to greater things, says VVS Laxman

New Zealand on Wednesday defeated India by eight wickets to win the inaugural ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final, played at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton. New Zealand's two most experienced batters – Kane Williamson and Ross Taylor – guided the Kiwis to their first ICC trophy since 2000. <o:p></o:p>

The Black Caps, who ended up as the runners-up in 2019 World Cup, continued to build on the improvement in the longest format and enjoyed a brilliant World Test Championship cycle, especially at home. <o:p></o:p>

In a match dominated more by the bowlers, the New Zealand pace quarter stood up with Kyle Jamieson shining the brightest with a five-wicket haul in an ICC final. While Jamieson picked up seven wickets, Tim Southee and Trent Boult ended up with five wickets each. Neil Wagner’s wicket column might show just three wickets, they were crucial to strengthen New Zealand’s stronghold in the match.

<o:p><img alt="Kyle Jamieson" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fcd847ca-8044-400d-9534-dc9e66affd3b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_9CX6J8.jpg" /></o:p>

New Zealand, after inviting India to bat first, had a tough opening hour with Indian openers Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill stomping their authority early. However, Wagner and Jamieson turned it around. Cheteshwar Pujara and Virat Kohli stitched a partnership, albeit slow, India steadily found them in a better place. A Trent Boult special in-swinger got rid of Pujara, followed by the quick dismissal of Kohli at 44.&nbsp;

<o:p></o:p>

Ajinkya Rahane, who looked the best out of any Indian batters, had a brain-fade moment and miscued a regular pull shot for his dismissal.<o:p></o:p>

Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin added 15 and 22 respectively by playing counter-attack cricket but India’s tail failed to wag. The Virat Kohli-led outfit was bundled out for 217. <o:p></o:p>

New Zealand openers Devon Conway and Tom Latham gave a solid start to the Kiwis with 54 and 30 respectively. Kane Williamson played the captain’s knock of 49 at a time the middle-order collapsed. The all-rounders and tail come to the rescue and added crucial runs at the end. Jamieson scored 21, Southee 30, breaking six-hitting records.<o:p></o:p>

Mohammed Shami stood out from the Indian pack with four wickets, including breathtaking spells of bowling. Ishant capped it up with three while Ashwin ended up with two. Jasprit Bumrah’s off form would bother India a bit but one can expect a bowler of Bumrah’s caliber to go through it for long.

<o:p><img alt="WTC Final - AFP" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a0c1a42e-7c78-4814-a138-85e8c31c113e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_9CY49P.jpg" /></o:p>

After rain delays, India’s batting cracked in the second innings with Jamieson running it past the Indian batting unit. Only Pant with a topsy-turvy 41-run knock stood out, while Rohit Sharma saw off the new ball well with 81-ball 30. <o:p></o:p>

New Zealand started their chase cautiously with both left-handed openers failing victims to Ashwin’s intelligence. A couple of dropped catches by Pujara and Bumrah hurt them Williamson, 52 not-out, Taylor, 47 not-out, guided New Zealand to a win for ages. The winners of inaugural ICC World Test Championship, New Zealand.<o:p></o:p>

New Zealand on Wednesday defeated India by eight wickets to win the inaugural ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final, played at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton.

New Zealand on Wednesday defeated India by eight wickets to win the inaugural ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final, played at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton. New Zealand's two most experienced batters – Kane Williamson and Ross Taylor – guided the Kiwis to their first ICC trophy since 2000. The Black Caps, who ended up as the runners-up in 2019 World Cup, continued to build on the improvement in the longest format and enjoyed a brilliant World Test Championship cycle, especially at home. In a match dominated more by the bowlers, the New Zealand pace quarter stood up with Kyle Jamieson shining the brightest with a five-wicket haul in an ICC final. While Jamieson picked up seven wickets, Tim Southee and Trent Boult ended up with five wickets each. Neil Wagner’s wicket column might show just three wickets, they were crucial to strengthen New Zealand’s stronghold in the match. New Zealand, after inviting India to bat first, had a tough opening hour with Indian openers Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill stomping their authority early. However, Wagner and Jamieson turned it around. Cheteshwar Pujara and Virat Kohli stitched a partnership, albeit slow, India steadily found them in a better place. A Trent Boult special in-swinger got rid of Pujara, followed by the quick dismissal of Kohli at 44. Ajinkya Rahane, who looked the best out of any Indian batters, had a brain-fade moment and miscued a regular pull shot for his dismissal. Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin added 15 and 22 respectively by playing counter-attack cricket but India’s tail failed to wag. The Virat Kohli-led outfit was bundled out for 217. New Zealand openers Devon Conway and Tom Latham gave a solid start to the Kiwis with 54 and 30 respectively. Kane Williamson played the captain’s knock of 49 at a time the middle-order collapsed. The all-rounders and tail come to the rescue and added crucial runs at the end. Jamieson scored 21, Southee 30, breaking six-hitting records. Mohammed Shami stood out from the Indian pack with four wickets, including breathtaking spells of bowling. Ishant capped it up with three while Ashwin ended up with two. Jasprit Bumrah’s off form would bother India a bit but one can expect a bowler of Bumrah’s caliber to go through it for long. After rain delays, India’s batting cracked in the second innings with Jamieson running it past the Indian batting unit. Only Pant with a topsy-turvy 41-run knock stood out, while Rohit Sharma saw off the new ball well with 81-ball 30. New Zealand started their chase cautiously with both left-handed openers failing victims to Ashwin’s intelligence. A couple of dropped catches by Pujara and Bumrah hurt them Williamson, 52 not-out, Taylor, 47 not-out, guided New Zealand to a win for ages. The winners of inaugural ICC World Test Championship, New Zealand.

New Zealand defeat India by 8 wickets to win ICC World Test Championship

Tim Southee enjoyed a fine day with bat and ball to put New Zealand in a strong position heading into the reserve day of the ICC World Test Championship Final in Southampton.

The 32-year-old scored a quickfire 30 before removing both Indian openers in an absorbing final session, with India leading by 32.&nbsp;

Starting the day trailing by 116 runs, New Zealand began patiently, with Kane Williamson anchoring the innings, but three wickets before lunch opened the door for India.&nbsp;

However, cameos from Kyle Jamieson and Southee were enough to secure a 32-run first innings lead to sit in the driver’s seat in the push for a result.&nbsp;

Southee then removed Shubman Gill and Rohit Sharma with some clever inswing in tricky batting conditions.&nbsp;

New Zealand made a circumspect start to the day, with runs hard to come by after a delayed start.&nbsp;

It took more than four overs for the first runs off the bat, and just 16 were scored in the first hour of play.&nbsp;

That pressure eventually told, with Ross Taylor driving on the up off Mohammed Shami, caught by a diving Gill for 11.&nbsp;

Henry Nicholls followed soon after for seven, caught by Rohit Sharma off the bowling of Ishant Sharma before Shami cleaned up BJ Watling for one as New Zealand slipped to 135/5 at lunch.&nbsp;

If the first session belonged to India, New Zealand fought back in the second, playing with greater intent, with Colin de Grandhomme’s drive for four to kick off the session an indication of what would follow.&nbsp;

The all-rounder fell leg before to Shami for 13, but Jamieson came in and hammered 21 off just 16 deliveries, including one huge heave over long-on off Shami.&nbsp;

The Indian quick had his revenge the very next ball, as Jamieson hit a top-edge to Jasprit Bumrah at long leg.&nbsp;

All the while, Williamson was plugging away at the other end, eventually dismissed for 49 after 177 deliveries, caught by Virat Kohli as he was tempted to play a wide one by Ishant Sharma.&nbsp;

His strike rate of 27.7 is the lowest he has had in an innings where he has reached 20, an indication of just how hard he had to dig in, but while he missed out on a half-century, New Zealand had the lead by the time he departed.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-length-has-done-the-trick-sanjay-bangar-on-indian-pacer-success-on-day-5-vs-nz-393186" hreflang="en">WTC Final: 'Length has done the trick' - Sanjay Bangar on Indian pacer' success on Day 5 vs NZ</a>

At 221 for eight, the tail was given license to have a go, and Southee took full advantage. He hit two sixes and a four in his 46-ball 30 putting on some valuable runs with Neil Wagner (0) and Trent Boult (5 not out) before he was the last man out, bowled off his pads by Ravindra Jadeja.&nbsp;

To challenge for the win, New Zealand needed some early wickets, and Gill fell for eight as Southee brought one back in to pin him leg before with the deficit still at eight.

Rohit Sharma and Cheteshwar Pujara knuckled down but another Southee inswinger did for the former, failing to play a shot as he went LBW for 30.&nbsp;

Pujara and Kohli saw out the remainder of the session and will return on Wednesday looking to build on India’s lead of 32.&nbsp;

The ICC confirmed that the reserve day would be utilised with a maximum of 98 overs (83 plus 15) to be bowled and play to begin at 10.30 a.m.&nbsp;BST

Tim Southee enjoyed a fine day with bat and ball to put New Zealand in a strong position heading into the reserve day of the ICC World Test Championship Final in Southampton.

Tim Southee enjoyed a fine day with bat and ball to put New Zealand in a strong position heading into the reserve day of the ICC World Test Championship Final in Southampton. The 32-year-old scored a quickfire 30 before removing both Indian openers in an absorbing final session, with India leading by 32. Starting the day trailing by 116 runs, New Zealand began patiently, with Kane Williamson anchoring the innings, but three wickets before lunch opened the door for India. However, cameos from Kyle Jamieson and Southee were enough to secure a 32-run first innings lead to sit in the driver’s seat in the push for a result. Southee then removed Shubman Gill and Rohit Sharma with some clever inswing in tricky batting conditions. New Zealand made a circumspect start to the day, with runs hard to come by after a delayed start. It took more than four overs for the first runs off the bat, and just 16 were scored in the first hour of play. That pressure eventually told, with Ross Taylor driving on the up off Mohammed Shami, caught by a diving Gill for 11. Henry Nicholls followed soon after for seven, caught by Rohit Sharma off the bowling of Ishant Sharma before Shami cleaned up BJ Watling for one as New Zealand slipped to 135/5 at lunch. If the first session belonged to India, New Zealand fought back in the second, playing with greater intent, with Colin de Grandhomme’s drive for four to kick off the session an indication of what would follow. The all-rounder fell leg before to Shami for 13, but Jamieson came in and hammered 21 off just 16 deliveries, including one huge heave over long-on off Shami. The Indian quick had his revenge the very next ball, as Jamieson hit a top-edge to Jasprit Bumrah at long leg. All the while, Williamson was plugging away at the other end, eventually dismissed for 49 after 177 deliveries, caught by Virat Kohli as he was tempted to play a wide one by Ishant Sharma. His strike rate of 27.7 is the lowest he has had in an innings where he has reached 20, an indication of just how hard he had to dig in, but while he missed out on a half-century, New Zealand had the lead by the time he departed. ALSO READ: WTC Final: 'Length has done the trick' - Sanjay Bangar on Indian pacer' success on Day 5 vs NZ At 221 for eight, the tail was given license to have a go, and Southee took full advantage. He hit two sixes and a four in his 46-ball 30 putting on some valuable runs with Neil Wagner (0) and Trent Boult (5 not out) before he was the last man out, bowled off his pads by Ravindra Jadeja. To challenge for the win, New Zealand needed some early wickets, and Gill fell for eight as Southee brought one back in to pin him leg before with the deficit still at eight. Rohit Sharma and Cheteshwar Pujara knuckled down but another Southee inswinger did for the former, failing to play a shot as he went LBW for 30. Pujara and Kohli saw out the remainder of the session and will return on Wednesday looking to build on India’s lead of 32. The ICC confirmed that the reserve day would be utilised with a maximum of 98 overs (83 plus 15) to be bowled and play to begin at 10.30 a.m. BST

WTC Final: Tim Southee stars as New Zealand eye victory on reserve day

Indian pacers Mohammed Shami and Ishant Sharma on Tuesday helped India bounce back into the World Test Championship final against New Zealand in Southampton by picking three quick wickets during the end of the first session on Day 5. <o:p></o:p>

Indian quicks struggled on Day 3 with the ball as they failed to find the perfect length to trouble the New Zealand batters. However, they were right on the money when play resumed on Day 5 after a washed-out Day 4.<o:p></o:p>

Former India batting coach, Sanjay Bangar weighed his opinion behind the success of Indian pacers on Day 5 as he said that the fuller length bowled by the Indian speedsters helped them get the most out of the conditions.<o:p></o:p>

"Massive difference, especially in the lengths that they bowled today. Earlier we were saying that the lengths were a tad shorter, only 22 percent bowled in the 4 to 6 metre area, but now the percentages have gone up to close to 35 percent and that is why we can see a lot of opportunities being created due to the fuller length.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-would-have-picked-bhuvneshwar-kumar-for-wtc-final-opines-sunil-gavaskar-393165" hreflang="en">Cricket: Would have picked Bhuvneshwar Kumar for WTC Final, opines Sunil Gavaskar</a><o:p></o:p>

"You see the delivery that got Watling, it was on a fuller length. You see Ross Taylor, driving. You see Henry Nicholls again, dragged him on the front foot. So, the length has done the trick. All the homework they must have done the night before, has come to the fore," Bangar said during the lunchtime show on host broadcaster Star Sports.<o:p></o:p>

While New Zealand have taken a lead, India would be happy to have restricted them to a modest score as the Kiwis were looking to score big before the start of the day’s play. NZ were bundled out for 249 with a lead of 32 runs.<o:p></o:p>

Indian pacers Mohammed Shami and Ishant Sharma on Tuesday helped India bounce back into the World Test Championship final against New Zealand in Southampton by picking three quick wickets during the end of the first session on Day 5.

Indian pacers Mohammed Shami and Ishant Sharma on Tuesday helped India bounce back into the World Test Championship final against New Zealand in Southampton by picking three quick wickets during the end of the first session on Day 5. Indian quicks struggled on Day 3 with the ball as they failed to find the perfect length to trouble the New Zealand batters. However, they were right on the money when play resumed on Day 5 after a washed-out Day 4. Former India batting coach, Sanjay Bangar weighed his opinion behind the success of Indian pacers on Day 5 as he said that the fuller length bowled by the Indian speedsters helped them get the most out of the conditions. "Massive difference, especially in the lengths that they bowled today. Earlier we were saying that the lengths were a tad shorter, only 22 percent bowled in the 4 to 6 metre area, but now the percentages have gone up to close to 35 percent and that is why we can see a lot of opportunities being created due to the fuller length. ALSO READ: Cricket: Would have picked Bhuvneshwar Kumar for WTC Final, opines Sunil Gavaskar "You see the delivery that got Watling, it was on a fuller length. You see Ross Taylor, driving. You see Henry Nicholls again, dragged him on the front foot. So, the length has done the trick. All the homework they must have done the night before, has come to the fore," Bangar said during the lunchtime show on host broadcaster Star Sports. While New Zealand have taken a lead, India would be happy to have restricted them to a modest score as the Kiwis were looking to score big before the start of the day’s play. NZ were bundled out for 249 with a lead of 32 runs.

WTC Final: 'Length has done the trick' - Sanjay Bangar on Indian pacer' success on Day 5 vs NZ

Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has said that he would have picked Bhuvneshwar Kumar in the Team India playing XI had the veteran seamer been selected for the World Test Championship final against New Zealand, currently being played at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton.<o:p></o:p>

India went on to pick the likes of Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah, Umesh Yadav and Mohammed Siraj in the 15-member squad for the WTC final. However, Gavaskar said that he would have picked Bhuvneshwar just for the WTC final despite concerns surrounding his fitness. <o:p></o:p>

“He (Bhuvneshwar) did play the IPL this time around and there wasn’t any injury concern. He did pull out of the September-October IPL but not this time. I would have included him just for this Test match because it is being played in June," Gavaskar said. <o:p></o:p>

Bhuvneshwar was trending on social media on Day 3 of the WTC final as the Indian pacers failed to make a strong mark with the ball. After bundling India out for 217, New Zealand batsmen looked at their best with the ball not offering much assistance for the Indians.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/used-to-always-get-angry-as-youngster-which-never-helped-my-cricket-reveals-jasprit-bumrah-393124" hreflang="en">Used to always get angry as youngster which never helped my cricket, reveals Jasprit Bumrah</a><o:p></o:p>

It was Ravichandran Ashwin who gave the first dismissal followed by Ishant getting rid of Devon Conway. <o:p></o:p>

However, Indian pacers came back roaring on Day 5 as Shami got the scalps Ross Taylor and BJ Watling whereas Ishant dismissed Henry Nicholls to put New Zealand at 135/5 at Lunch on Day 5.<o:p></o:p>

Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has said that he would have picked Bhuvneshwar Kumar in the Team India playing XI had the veteran seamer been selected for the World Test Championship final against New Zealand, currently being played at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton.

Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has said that he would have picked Bhuvneshwar Kumar in the Team India playing XI had the veteran seamer been selected for the World Test Championship final against New Zealand, currently being played at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton. India went on to pick the likes of Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah, Umesh Yadav and Mohammed Siraj in the 15-member squad for the WTC final. However, Gavaskar said that he would have picked Bhuvneshwar just for the WTC final despite concerns surrounding his fitness. “He (Bhuvneshwar) did play the IPL this time around and there wasn’t any injury concern. He did pull out of the September-October IPL but not this time. I would have included him just for this Test match because it is being played in June," Gavaskar said. Bhuvneshwar was trending on social media on Day 3 of the WTC final as the Indian pacers failed to make a strong mark with the ball. After bundling India out for 217, New Zealand batsmen looked at their best with the ball not offering much assistance for the Indians. ALSO READ: Used to always get angry as youngster which never helped my cricket, reveals Jasprit Bumrah It was Ravichandran Ashwin who gave the first dismissal followed by Ishant getting rid of Devon Conway. However, Indian pacers came back roaring on Day 5 as Shami got the scalps Ross Taylor and BJ Watling whereas Ishant dismissed Henry Nicholls to put New Zealand at 135/5 at Lunch on Day 5.

Cricket: Would have picked Bhuvneshwar Kumar for WTC Final, opines Sunil Gavaskar

Former India opener Aakash Chopra feels New Zealand will be under more pressure than India despite posting 101 for 2 after bundling out Virat Kohli and Co for 217 on Day 3 of the World Test Championship final at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton.<o:p></o:p>

Chopra said that New Zealand would eye a lead of at least 150 if they want to take a sizeable advantage heading into the second innings of the historic final. However, he added that the Kiwis would know that they are yet not in a winning position.<o:p></o:p>

Indian pacers struggled to find swing on Day 3 contrary to their opponents but tight spells by Mohammed Shami and Ravichandran Ashwin brought the Indian team back into game. While Ashwin got rid of Tom Latham, Ishant Sharma used the pressure to dismiss Devon Conway.<o:p></o:p>

"They (New Zealand) also have to look at where India were. They were 146 for 3, two set batsmen but come next morning, it's a different world altogether. The ball is moving again, you find the edges, India's tail hasn't wagged, the middle-order has collapsed and you haven't reached where you wanted to reach. Similar things can unfold tomorrow as well," Aakash Chopra told Star Sports.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-dinesh-karthik-provides-southampton-weather-update-ahead-of-day-4-392898" hreflang="en">WTC Final: Dinesh Karthik provides Southampton weather update ahead of Day 4</a><o:p></o:p>

"So from a New Zealand point of view, they know they are not out of the woods at all. Keep in mind, the moment you bowl first, you have to bat last and you have to bat the opposition out. So a 30-40 run lead is insignificant. You have to take at least a 150-run lead to make a match of it, seal the advantage of bowling first.<o:p></o:p>

"I actually feel there is more pressure on New Zealand as compared to India. India will be backing themselves."<o:p></o:p>

Chopra said that Indian fast bowlers would have to find swing on Day 4 of the match to ensure the New Zealand batters are troubled enough under overcast conditions in Southampton while adding veteran spinner Ashwin could prove to be a big threat with the ball.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-wtc-final-jamieson-stars-with-the-ball-as-new-zealand-dominate-392910" hreflang="en">Cricket: WTC Final - Jamieson stars with the ball as New Zealand dominate</a><o:p></o:p>

"Things might change, Ashwin has already got a wicket. He is getting a bit of turn. Swing is the only area where Indian bowlers are lagging behind, not the discipline nor the effort. Ishant was the only Indian bowler who was able to swing.<o:p></o:p>

"Tomorrow is the day where India fast bowlers need to find swing. If they are able to do that, the match will swing in India's favour," Chopra added.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

Former India opener Aakash Chopra feels New Zealand will be under more pressure than India despite posting 101 for 2 after bundling out Virat Kohli and Co for 217 on Day 3 of the World Test Championship final at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton.

Former India opener Aakash Chopra feels New Zealand will be under more pressure than India despite posting 101 for 2 after bundling out Virat Kohli and Co for 217 on Day 3 of the World Test Championship final at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton. Chopra said that New Zealand would eye a lead of at least 150 if they want to take a sizeable advantage heading into the second innings of the historic final. However, he added that the Kiwis would know that they are yet not in a winning position. Indian pacers struggled to find swing on Day 3 contrary to their opponents but tight spells by Mohammed Shami and Ravichandran Ashwin brought the Indian team back into game. While Ashwin got rid of Tom Latham, Ishant Sharma used the pressure to dismiss Devon Conway. "They (New Zealand) also have to look at where India were. They were 146 for 3, two set batsmen but come next morning, it's a different world altogether. The ball is moving again, you find the edges, India's tail hasn't wagged, the middle-order has collapsed and you haven't reached where you wanted to reach. Similar things can unfold tomorrow as well," Aakash Chopra told Star Sports. ALSO READ: WTC Final: Dinesh Karthik provides Southampton weather update ahead of Day 4 "So from a New Zealand point of view, they know they are not out of the woods at all. Keep in mind, the moment you bowl first, you have to bat last and you have to bat the opposition out. So a 30-40 run lead is insignificant. You have to take at least a 150-run lead to make a match of it, seal the advantage of bowling first. "I actually feel there is more pressure on New Zealand as compared to India. India will be backing themselves." Chopra said that Indian fast bowlers would have to find swing on Day 4 of the match to ensure the New Zealand batters are troubled enough under overcast conditions in Southampton while adding veteran spinner Ashwin could prove to be a big threat with the ball. ALSO READ: Cricket: WTC Final - Jamieson stars with the ball as New Zealand dominate "Things might change, Ashwin has already got a wicket. He is getting a bit of turn. Swing is the only area where Indian bowlers are lagging behind, not the discipline nor the effort. Ishant was the only Indian bowler who was able to swing. "Tomorrow is the day where India fast bowlers need to find swing. If they are able to do that, the match will swing in India's favour," Chopra added.

Cricket: WTC Final - More pressure on New Zealand than India after Day 3, reckons Aakash Chopra

Kyle Jamieson was New Zealand’s hero on day three as he claimed his fifth five-wicket haul in just eight Tests to help the Black Caps seize initiative in the ICC World Test Championship Final.

The 26-year-old Jamieson, who only made his Test debut against India in February 2020, secured the all-important wicket of Virat Kohli to prevent the skipper adding to his overnight score of 44.

He also dismissed the dangerous Rishabh Pant (4) before taking the wickets of Ishant Sharma and Jasprit Bumrah in successive balls as India slumped to 217 all out from 92.1 overs.

No-one has more WTC five-wicket hauls than Jamieson, while he is only the 11th bowler to take five five-wicket hauls in his first eight Tests - and only the sixth to do so since the First World War.

In reply, openers Tom Latham (30) and Devon Conway (54) put their side in the driving seat with a 70-run partnership before India hit back late on to leave the Black Caps on 101for two heading into day four.

A wet outfield had meant play was delayed by 30 minutes at the start of the day before India resumed on 146 for three, with captain Kohli looking ominous on 44 not out overnight.

But it took no time at all for Jamieson to send India’s talisman packing without adding another run, with the New Zealander trapping the skipper LBW with a perfect in-swinger.

Pant almost lost his wicket in a similar fashion, surviving a marginal LBW on the umpire’s call but Jamieson eventually got his man a few overs later - caught by Latham.

Ajinkya Rahane, India’s highest run-scorer in the WTC, helped steady the ship alongside Ravindra Jadeja but he was unable to add to his three centuries and six half-centuries.

Neil Wagner lured the 33-year-old right-hander into a speculative pull shot which went straight to Latham at forward square leg as Rahane was dismissed for 49 off 117 balls.

Suddenly 149/3 had become 182/6 and while Ravichandran Ashwin provided some stability, he fell victim to Tim Southee for 22 shortly after seeing India past the 200-mark.

Jadeja was given a lifeline on 11 when he was dropped by Southee at third slip after poking at Trent Boult, ensuring India were able to reach the lunchtime interval at 211 for seven.

And Jamieson returned to the fore in the afternoon session, taking the wickets of Sharma and Bumrah in successive balls to seal yet another five-wicket haul.

Sharma was attracted to a rising delivery outside off stump edging through to Ross Taylor at first slip, while a full, straight ball trapped Bumrah plumb LBW for a golden duck.

Jamieson was denied a hat-trick by Mohammed Shami, who anticipated the full-pitched delivery and drove the ball to the boundary with a flourish in response.

Yet just minutes later, following a long sight-screen adjustment break, Jadeja (15 from 53 balls) edged down the leg side to BJ Watling off Boult as India were bowled out for 217.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-pleased-to-dismiss-virat-kohli-hes-world-class-batsman-says-kyle-jamieson-392879" hreflang="en">WTC Final: Pleased to dismiss Virat Kohli, he's world-class batsman, says Kyle Jamieson</a>

In reply, Latham and Conway made a cautious start as the Indian seamers looked for an early breakthrough, with Bumrah and Sharma both testing the openers with the swinging ball.

Shami managed to find the edge of Latham’s bat in the 20th over but to the despair of the Indian fans, the ball looped in the air and agonisingly over Jadeja in the gully.

Latham also poked and missed a ball from Bumrah in the final over before tea but New Zealand reached the break without losing a wicket, finishing the afternoon session on 36 for no loss.

Although India continued to threaten with the ball after tea, Conway and Latham remained resolute in overcast conditions as they reached the drinks break 70 without loss.

The partnership was ultimately ended upon the resumption of play, with Latham’s luck running out when he scooped an Ashwin delivery to Kohli at short extra-cover for 30.&nbsp;

But Conway, who scored a double century on his Test debut at the beginning of this month, showed no signs of buckling under the pressure as he reached his half-century from 137 balls.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-not-genuine-swing-bowlers-simon-doull-explains-indian-pacers-struggles-392887" hreflang="en">WTC Final: Not genuine swing bowlers - Simon Doull explains Indian pacers' struggles</a>

Conway’s resistance was finally broken just before the close of play for bad light, whipping Sharma to Shami at mid-on, providing India with a late boost to their WTC title hopes.

Meanwhile, Sri Lanka’s Kumar Sangakkara was presented with the ICC Hall of Fame cap by former India captain and ICC Hall of Famer Sunil Gavaskar following the wicketkeeper-batsman’s induction last week.

Sangakkara, who was among 10 special inductees into the ICC Hall of Fame to celebrate the prestigious history of Test cricket, was presented with the framed cap at the Hampshire Bowl on live telecast during the tea interval on the third day of the ICC World Test Championship Final.

Kyle Jamieson was New Zealand’s hero on day three as he claimed his fifth five-wicket haul in just eight Tests to help the Black Caps seize initiative in the ICC World Test Championship Final.

Kyle Jamieson was New Zealand’s hero on day three as he claimed his fifth five-wicket haul in just eight Tests to help the Black Caps seize initiative in the ICC World Test Championship Final. The 26-year-old Jamieson, who only made his Test debut against India in February 2020, secured the all-important wicket of Virat Kohli to prevent the skipper adding to his overnight score of 44. He also dismissed the dangerous Rishabh Pant (4) before taking the wickets of Ishant Sharma and Jasprit Bumrah in successive balls as India slumped to 217 all out from 92.1 overs. No-one has more WTC five-wicket hauls than Jamieson, while he is only the 11th bowler to take five five-wicket hauls in his first eight Tests - and only the sixth to do so since the First World War. In reply, openers Tom Latham (30) and Devon Conway (54) put their side in the driving seat with a 70-run partnership before India hit back late on to leave the Black Caps on 101for two heading into day four. A wet outfield had meant play was delayed by 30 minutes at the start of the day before India resumed on 146 for three, with captain Kohli looking ominous on 44 not out overnight. But it took no time at all for Jamieson to send India’s talisman packing without adding another run, with the New Zealander trapping the skipper LBW with a perfect in-swinger. Pant almost lost his wicket in a similar fashion, surviving a marginal LBW on the umpire’s call but Jamieson eventually got his man a few overs later - caught by Latham. Ajinkya Rahane, India’s highest run-scorer in the WTC, helped steady the ship alongside Ravindra Jadeja but he was unable to add to his three centuries and six half-centuries. Neil Wagner lured the 33-year-old right-hander into a speculative pull shot which went straight to Latham at forward square leg as Rahane was dismissed for 49 off 117 balls. Suddenly 149/3 had become 182/6 and while Ravichandran Ashwin provided some stability, he fell victim to Tim Southee for 22 shortly after seeing India past the 200-mark. Jadeja was given a lifeline on 11 when he was dropped by Southee at third slip after poking at Trent Boult, ensuring India were able to reach the lunchtime interval at 211 for seven. And Jamieson returned to the fore in the afternoon session, taking the wickets of Sharma and Bumrah in successive balls to seal yet another five-wicket haul. Sharma was attracted to a rising delivery outside off stump edging through to Ross Taylor at first slip, while a full, straight ball trapped Bumrah plumb LBW for a golden duck. Jamieson was denied a hat-trick by Mohammed Shami, who anticipated the full-pitched delivery and drove the ball to the boundary with a flourish in response. Yet just minutes later, following a long sight-screen adjustment break, Jadeja (15 from 53 balls) edged down the leg side to BJ Watling off Boult as India were bowled out for 217. ALSO READ: WTC Final: Pleased to dismiss Virat Kohli, he's world-class batsman, says Kyle Jamieson In reply, Latham and Conway made a cautious start as the Indian seamers looked for an early breakthrough, with Bumrah and Sharma both testing the openers with the swinging ball. Shami managed to find the edge of Latham’s bat in the 20th over but to the despair of the Indian fans, the ball looped in the air and agonisingly over Jadeja in the gully. Latham also poked and missed a ball from Bumrah in the final over before tea but New Zealand reached the break without losing a wicket, finishing the afternoon session on 36 for no loss. Although India continued to threaten with the ball after tea, Conway and Latham remained resolute in overcast conditions as they reached the drinks break 70 without loss. The partnership was ultimately ended upon the resumption of play, with Latham’s luck running out when he scooped an Ashwin delivery to Kohli at short extra-cover for 30. But Conway, who scored a double century on his Test debut at the beginning of this month, showed no signs of buckling under the pressure as he reached his half-century from 137 balls. ALSO READ: WTC Final: Not genuine swing bowlers - Simon Doull explains Indian pacers' struggles Conway’s resistance was finally broken just before the close of play for bad light, whipping Sharma to Shami at mid-on, providing India with a late boost to their WTC title hopes. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka’s Kumar Sangakkara was presented with the ICC Hall of Fame cap by former India captain and ICC Hall of Famer Sunil Gavaskar following the wicketkeeper-batsman’s induction last week. Sangakkara, who was among 10 special inductees into the ICC Hall of Fame to celebrate the prestigious history of Test cricket, was presented with the framed cap at the Hampshire Bowl on live telecast during the tea interval on the third day of the ICC World Test Championship Final.

Cricket: WTC Final - Jamieson stars with the ball as New Zealand dominate

New Zealand all-rounder Kyle Jamieson on Sunday scripted the record for most five-wicket hauls in the ICC World Test Championship during the historic final of the inaugural edition against India at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton. Jamieson troubled the Indian batters as he went on to scalp a five-fer to help New Zealand bundle India out for 217 on Day 3 of the match.<o:p></o:p>

Jamieson got the wickets of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Rishabh Pant to break the spine of the Indian batting unit and in the process, surpassed the likes of Ravichandran Ashwin, Nathan Lyon and Axar Patel as the Kiwi bagged his fifth five-fer in his eight-match in the WTC cycle.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-sunil-gavaskar-reacts-to-ajinkya-rahane-playing-half-cooked-pull-shot-in-wtc-final-vs-nz-392776" hreflang="en">Cricket: Sunil Gavaskar reacts to Ajinkya Rahane playing half-cooked pull shot in WTC Final vs NZ</a><o:p></o:p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Most 5-wicket hauls in WTC:<o:p></o:p></h2>

<ul>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Kyle Jamieson - 5<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">R Ashwin 4 <o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Nathan Lyon 4 <o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Axar Patel 4 <o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Ishant Sharma 4 <o:p></o:p></li>
</ul>

Jamieson, who started his Test career in 2020, has scalped 41 Test wickets in 8 matches so far. His bowling average of 12.41 is the best for any bowler since the 19th century.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-cheteshwar-pujaras-technique-can-put-pressure-on-non-striker-says-brad-hogg-392764" hreflang="en">Cricket: Cheteshwar Pujara's technique can put pressure on non-striker, says Brad Hogg</a><o:p></o:p>

The youngster finished with the figures of 5 for 31 in 22 overs including 12 maidens as he helped New Zealand bounce back into the match after Indian openers Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill gave a brisk start on Day 2. <o:p></o:p>

India bundled out for 217 with New Zealand bowlers wrapping up the proceeding quickly on Day 3.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

New Zealand all-rounder Kyle Jamieson on Sunday scripted the record for most five-wicket hauls in the ICC World Test Championship during the historic final of the inaugural edition against India at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton.

New Zealand all-rounder Kyle Jamieson on Sunday scripted the record for most five-wicket hauls in the ICC World Test Championship during the historic final of the inaugural edition against India at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton. Jamieson troubled the Indian batters as he went on to scalp a five-fer to help New Zealand bundle India out for 217 on Day 3 of the match. Jamieson got the wickets of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Rishabh Pant to break the spine of the Indian batting unit and in the process, surpassed the likes of Ravichandran Ashwin, Nathan Lyon and Axar Patel as the Kiwi bagged his fifth five-fer in his eight-match in the WTC cycle. ALSO READ: Cricket: Sunil Gavaskar reacts to Ajinkya Rahane playing half-cooked pull shot in WTC Final vs NZ Most 5-wicket hauls in WTC: Kyle Jamieson - 5 R Ashwin 4 Nathan Lyon 4 Axar Patel 4 Ishant Sharma 4 Jamieson, who started his Test career in 2020, has scalped 41 Test wickets in 8 matches so far. His bowling average of 12.41 is the best for any bowler since the 19th century. ALSO READ: Cricket: Cheteshwar Pujara's technique can put pressure on non-striker, says Brad Hogg The youngster finished with the figures of 5 for 31 in 22 overs including 12 maidens as he helped New Zealand bounce back into the match after Indian openers Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill gave a brisk start on Day 2. India bundled out for 217 with New Zealand bowlers wrapping up the proceeding quickly on Day 3.

Cricket: Kyle Jamieson surpasses R Ashwin, Nathan Lyon with most five-wicket hauls in World Test Championship

Former New Zealand pacer Shane Bond has said that the Black Caps couldn’t have asked for a better scenario to take on India in the World Test Championship final. New Zealand headed into the inaugural WTC Final on the back of a 1-0 Test series win over England whereas India prepared for the final with an intra-squad stimulation match. <o:p></o:p>

Bond backed New Zealand to wipe off the hard-luck factor in the WTC Final and get the better of India to lift the Mace. <o:p></o:p>

"We couldn't have asked for a better scenario to play India in England with no practice. Us coming off two Test matches. We are primed to win something," said Bond on the TOI Sportscast.<o:p></o:p>

"So I am hoping that some of the hard-luck stories that we have had in the last couple of World Cups, we will flip the script this time and lift up that mace and be the champions, which will be pretty special, pretty cool for our sport over here, because cricket is the number two sport in the country and for us to achieve that (win WTC Final) will be fantastic," he further said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-they-can-take-an-attack-away-vikram-rathour-lauds-rohit-sharma-shubman-gills-opening-pairing-392741" hreflang="en">WTC Final: 'They can take an attack away' - Vikram Rathour lauds Rohit Sharma-Shubman Gill's opening pairing</a><o:p></o:p>

New Zealand finished runners-up in the last two ICC World Cups with the defeat in 2019 coming on the basis of boundary-count rule. Bond further said that winning WTC Final could change the landscape of how cricket is seen in a country where Rugby is the most favourite sport. <o:p></o:p>

"We are a very small country. Always seen as the dark horse, the underdog. In the last eight years in particular the team has made two World Cup finals and tied one. That's the way I see it. And got really close," said Bond.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-sneh-rana-becomes-first-indian-cricketer-to-script-unique-record-on-test-debut-392722" hreflang="en">Cricket: Sneh Rana becomes first Indian cricketer to script unique record on Test debut</a><o:p></o:p>

"For a country of our population, our resources, our finances to do that and now find ourselves in the WTC (final) is an incredible effort. Someone like me, who has played for the national team, I take a huge sense of pride in it. And I know everybody here is very excited about the Test match and think that we have a huge chance of winning," he said.<o:p></o:p>

Former New Zealand pacer Shane Bond has said that the Black Caps couldn’t have asked for a better scenario to take on India in the World Test Championship final.

Former New Zealand pacer Shane Bond has said that the Black Caps couldn’t have asked for a better scenario to take on India in the World Test Championship final. New Zealand headed into the inaugural WTC Final on the back of a 1-0 Test series win over England whereas India prepared for the final with an intra-squad stimulation match. Bond backed New Zealand to wipe off the hard-luck factor in the WTC Final and get the better of India to lift the Mace. "We couldn't have asked for a better scenario to play India in England with no practice. Us coming off two Test matches. We are primed to win something," said Bond on the TOI Sportscast. "So I am hoping that some of the hard-luck stories that we have had in the last couple of World Cups, we will flip the script this time and lift up that mace and be the champions, which will be pretty special, pretty cool for our sport over here, because cricket is the number two sport in the country and for us to achieve that (win WTC Final) will be fantastic," he further said. ALSO READ: WTC Final: 'They can take an attack away' - Vikram Rathour lauds Rohit Sharma-Shubman Gill's opening pairing New Zealand finished runners-up in the last two ICC World Cups with the defeat in 2019 coming on the basis of boundary-count rule. Bond further said that winning WTC Final could change the landscape of how cricket is seen in a country where Rugby is the most favourite sport. "We are a very small country. Always seen as the dark horse, the underdog. In the last eight years in particular the team has made two World Cup finals and tied one. That's the way I see it. And got really close," said Bond. ALSO READ: Cricket: Sneh Rana becomes first Indian cricketer to script unique record on Test debut "For a country of our population, our resources, our finances to do that and now find ourselves in the WTC (final) is an incredible effort. Someone like me, who has played for the national team, I take a huge sense of pride in it. And I know everybody here is very excited about the Test match and think that we have a huge chance of winning," he said.

Cricket - NZ couldn't have asked for better scenario against India: Shane Bond

India captain Virat Kohli and New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson on Thursday reflected on their team’s journey in the World Test Championship (WTC) cycle as the two top sides gear up for the grand finale, to be played in Southampton from Friday. <o:p></o:p>

Indian skipper Kohli said that a one-off Test match to determine the winner of WTC is not a “true reflection” of his team while adding he is treating it as “just another” match. With the Test Mace on the line, Kohli isn’t too bothered about winning or losing the match yet and wants to enjoy the occasion of being in the inaugural edition of the WTC.<o:p></o:p>

“One game over five days. It’s not going to reflect anything and those who understand the game know and also what has gone over the period of last four to five years," Kohli said on the eve of the big final against the Black Caps.<o:p></o:p>

“If we win, cricket will not stop and if we lose also, cricket won’t stop. We are playing in quest of excellence and understand who we are as a team," the eloquent Indian captain added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-mohammed-siraj-misses-out-as-india-announce-playing-xi-for-wtc-final-392210" hreflang="en">Cricket: Mohammed Siraj misses out as India announce playing XI for WTC Final</a><o:p></o:p>

“This is just another Test match. All these things (WTC final) look good from the outside. One game can’t become a do-or-die game. It’s a great moment but cricket goes on just like life goes on."<o:p></o:p>

“The occasion needs to be enjoyed and no more important than the first Test that we all played as young players trying to rise through the ranks.<o:p></o:p>

“We need to have belief in our abilities and keep things simple. It’s a contest between bat and ball."<o:p></o:p>

Whereas Williamson reflected on New Zealand’s growth as a powerhouse team over the years but said that he is not reading too much into the ‘favourites’ tag given to his team.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-collective-strength-of-team-india-stands-out-for-me-sachin-tendulkar-ahead-of-wtc-final-392197" hreflang="en">Exclusive | 'Collective strength of Team India stands out for me': Sachin Tendulkar ahead of WTC Final</a><o:p></o:p>

“There’s been a lot of growth over a period of time so many challenges along the way every day but the team has bought into it and tried to move past those with a good attitude," Williamson said on the eve of the final.<o:p></o:p>

“There is lot of hard work done over a long period of time to find ourselves here in the first final (of WTC).<o:p></o:p>

“It’s exciting but for us it’s just focusing on continuing that growth and trying to keep committing to the parts of our game that give us the best chance and that’s where I know the guys will be focusing on. We are trying to look at the long game and try and improve all the time."<o:p></o:p>

India captain Virat Kohli and New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson on Thursday reflected on their team’s journey in the World Test Championship (WTC) cycle as the two top sides gear up for the grand finale, to be played in Southampton from Friday.

India captain Virat Kohli and New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson on Thursday reflected on their team’s journey in the World Test Championship (WTC) cycle as the two top sides gear up for the grand finale, to be played in Southampton from Friday. Indian skipper Kohli said that a one-off Test match to determine the winner of WTC is not a “true reflection” of his team while adding he is treating it as “just another” match. With the Test Mace on the line, Kohli isn’t too bothered about winning or losing the match yet and wants to enjoy the occasion of being in the inaugural edition of the WTC. “One game over five days. It’s not going to reflect anything and those who understand the game know and also what has gone over the period of last four to five years," Kohli said on the eve of the big final against the Black Caps. “If we win, cricket will not stop and if we lose also, cricket won’t stop. We are playing in quest of excellence and understand who we are as a team," the eloquent Indian captain added. ALSO READ: Cricket: Mohammed Siraj misses out as India announce playing XI for WTC Final “This is just another Test match. All these things (WTC final) look good from the outside. One game can’t become a do-or-die game. It’s a great moment but cricket goes on just like life goes on." “The occasion needs to be enjoyed and no more important than the first Test that we all played as young players trying to rise through the ranks. “We need to have belief in our abilities and keep things simple. It’s a contest between bat and ball." Whereas Williamson reflected on New Zealand’s growth as a powerhouse team over the years but said that he is not reading too much into the ‘favourites’ tag given to his team. ALSO READ: Exclusive | 'Collective strength of Team India stands out for me': Sachin Tendulkar ahead of WTC Final “There’s been a lot of growth over a period of time so many challenges along the way every day but the team has bought into it and tried to move past those with a good attitude," Williamson said on the eve of the final. “There is lot of hard work done over a long period of time to find ourselves here in the first final (of WTC). “It’s exciting but for us it’s just focusing on continuing that growth and trying to keep committing to the parts of our game that give us the best chance and that’s where I know the guys will be focusing on. We are trying to look at the long game and try and improve all the time."

Cricket: WTC Final - Virat Kohli, Kane Williamson gear up for ultimate prize in Test cricket

Australian batsman David Warner reckons the ICC World Test Championship between India and New Zealand will be won by the side who bowls better during the course of the much-awaited match, starting Friday in Southampton.<o:p></o:p>

On the battle between two world-class captains and high-quality batters – Kane Williamson and Virat Kohli – Warner didn’t pick his favourite but lauded the duo for their class and quality. <o:p></o:p>

"You look at two world-class batsmen and world-class captains, both average above 50," he told India Today on eSalaamCricket.<o:p></o:p>

Warner feels while New Zealand have played two-Test series against England in the build-up to the WTC final, the conditions in Southampton will be completely different to what London and Birmingham had to offer in the rubber. He further predicted that with the Dukes ball, it is going to be a battle of the bowlers.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-michael-vaughan-alastair-cook-predict-winner-of-wtc-final-between-india-and-new-zealand-392121" hreflang="en">Cricket: Michael Vaughan, Alastair Cook predict winner of WTC final between India and New Zealand</a><o:p></o:p>

"They had the warm-up so because of that do they have a sense of what the conditions are going to be like. But we are at Southampton (for the WTC Final), which has been a spinning wicket in Tests. In ODIs, we have seen it as a hard bouncy track. So do India play two spinners? It is going to be a great battle, both teams are using a Dukes ball, so I think it is going to be a battle of the bowlers," he said.<o:p></o:p>

Earlier, former India batsman VVS Laxman had predicted that the team which manages to score big in the first innings will have an upper hand in the inaugural WTC Final.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-wtc-final-weather-predictions-ageas-bowl-pitch-conditions-and-probable-xi-392119" hreflang="en">IND vs NZ, WTC Final: Weather predictions, Rose Bowl pitch conditions and probable XI</a><o:p></o:p>

"It is more about which team bats better. I think there is a lot more experience and class in the Indian team. With New Zealand, yes, they have got an exciting opener in the form of (Devon) Conway. There is experience in Ross Taylor, Tom Latham and Kane Williamson. But the Indian batting lineup has a lot of experience and talent, so I believe whichever team scores an above par total in the first innings will hold the edge," said Laxman.<o:p></o:p>

Australian batsman David Warner reckons the ICC World Test Championship between India and New Zealand will be won by the side who bowls better during the course of the much-awaited match, starting Friday in Southampton.

Australian batsman David Warner reckons the ICC World Test Championship between India and New Zealand will be won by the side who bowls better during the course of the much-awaited match, starting Friday in Southampton. On the battle between two world-class captains and high-quality batters – Kane Williamson and Virat Kohli – Warner didn’t pick his favourite but lauded the duo for their class and quality. "You look at two world-class batsmen and world-class captains, both average above 50," he told India Today on eSalaamCricket. Warner feels while New Zealand have played two-Test series against England in the build-up to the WTC final, the conditions in Southampton will be completely different to what London and Birmingham had to offer in the rubber. He further predicted that with the Dukes ball, it is going to be a battle of the bowlers. ALSO READ: Cricket: Michael Vaughan, Alastair Cook predict winner of WTC final between India and New Zealand "They had the warm-up so because of that do they have a sense of what the conditions are going to be like. But we are at Southampton (for the WTC Final), which has been a spinning wicket in Tests. In ODIs, we have seen it as a hard bouncy track. So do India play two spinners? It is going to be a great battle, both teams are using a Dukes ball, so I think it is going to be a battle of the bowlers," he said. Earlier, former India batsman VVS Laxman had predicted that the team which manages to score big in the first innings will have an upper hand in the inaugural WTC Final. ALSO READ: IND vs NZ, WTC Final: Weather predictions, Rose Bowl pitch conditions and probable XI "It is more about which team bats better. I think there is a lot more experience and class in the Indian team. With New Zealand, yes, they have got an exciting opener in the form of (Devon) Conway. There is experience in Ross Taylor, Tom Latham and Kane Williamson. But the Indian batting lineup has a lot of experience and talent, so I believe whichever team scores an above par total in the first innings will hold the edge," said Laxman.

Cricket: IND vs NZ - WTC Final going to be battle of bowlers, says David Warner

Team India and New Zealand will clash against each other in World Test Championship final that will be played on Friday at the Rose Bowl in Southampton. Both teams will be looking to lift the Test Championship Mace and take home a cash price of US$ 1.6 million.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fearless-cricket-the-priority-for-rahane-as-wtc-final-vs-new-zealand-nears-392090" hreflang="en">Fearless cricket the priority for Rahane as WTC Final vs New Zealand nears</a>

<h2>Pitch conditions:&nbsp;</h2>

Head groundsman at Southampton, Simon Lee is aiming to produce a competitive track with early help for pacers and with some assistance for spinners later in the summit clash.

"Pitch preparation for this Test is a little simpler as we are a neutral venue, we are guided by the ICC, but we all want is a good pitch that offers an even contest between the teams," Lee told ESPNcricinfo.

"For me personally I just want to get something out that has some pace, bounce and carry in the pitch.

"It can be a hard thing to do in England as the weather doesn't help us most of the time, but the forecast in the build-up is good with a lot of sun, so we are hopeful that we'll get some pace and a hard pitch without over-rolling it and killing it."

<h2>Weather Conditions:&nbsp;</h2>

The weather conditions might play spoilsport with spells of rain and overcast conditions predicted during the course of the match. Almost all five days have a spell of showers. However, the sixth day (that is kept as a reserve day) is expected to partly sunny.&nbsp;

<h2>Predicted XI:&nbsp;</h2>

India: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (Captain), Ajinkya Rahane (VC), Rishabh Pant, Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, Mohammed Shami, Ishant Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah

New Zealand: Kane Williamson (Captain), Tom Latham (VC), Devon Conway, Ross Taylor, Henry Nichols, B J Watling, Ajaz Patel, Kyle Jamieson, Trent Boult, Tim Southee, Neil Wagner

Team India and New Zealand will clash against each other in World Test Championship final that will be played on Friday at the Rose Bowl in Southampton. Both teams will be looking to lift the Test Championship Mace and take home a cash price of US$ 1.

Team India and New Zealand will clash against each other in World Test Championship final that will be played on Friday at the Rose Bowl in Southampton. Both teams will be looking to lift the Test Championship Mace and take home a cash price of US$ 1.6 million. ALSO READ: Fearless cricket the priority for Rahane as WTC Final vs New Zealand nears Pitch conditions: Head groundsman at Southampton, Simon Lee is aiming to produce a competitive track with early help for pacers and with some assistance for spinners later in the summit clash. "Pitch preparation for this Test is a little simpler as we are a neutral venue, we are guided by the ICC, but we all want is a good pitch that offers an even contest between the teams," Lee told ESPNcricinfo. "For me personally I just want to get something out that has some pace, bounce and carry in the pitch. "It can be a hard thing to do in England as the weather doesn't help us most of the time, but the forecast in the build-up is good with a lot of sun, so we are hopeful that we'll get some pace and a hard pitch without over-rolling it and killing it." Weather Conditions: The weather conditions might play spoilsport with spells of rain and overcast conditions predicted during the course of the match. Almost all five days have a spell of showers. However, the sixth day (that is kept as a reserve day) is expected to partly sunny. Predicted XI: India: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (Captain), Ajinkya Rahane (VC), Rishabh Pant, Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, Mohammed Shami, Ishant Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah New Zealand: Kane Williamson (Captain), Tom Latham (VC), Devon Conway, Ross Taylor, Henry Nichols, B J Watling, Ajaz Patel, Kyle Jamieson, Trent Boult, Tim Southee, Neil Wagner

IND vs NZ, WTC Final: Weather predictions, Rose Bowl pitch conditions and probable XI

Former England captains Alastair Cook and Michael Vaughan have backed New Zealand to win the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship, against India, in Southampton, starting Friday. <o:p></o:p>

Vaughan and Cook agreed that New Zealand are a high-class team and well capable of playing disciplined cricket with both bat and ball for long periods in the longest format of the game. <o:p></o:p>

"I fancy New Zealand. I know I'm going to get absolute pelters on social media for going against India. But the way New Zealand played in the two Tests against England, I think they're going to do it. They are a high-class cricket team - I like every aspect of their game," Vaughan told 'BBC'.<o:p></o:p>

"New Zealand play long periods of disciplined cricket, with bat and ball. They bat with a great maturity and read the situation perfectly.<o:p></o:p>

"If you analyse Test cricket, generally it is the side that are able to cover all the bases the longest that wins, and New Zealand are able to do that because they have a very skillful bowling attack," he added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-wtc-final-weather-predictions-ageas-bowl-pitch-conditions-and-probable-xi-392119" hreflang="en">IND vs NZ, WTC Final: Weather predictions, Ageas Bowl pitch conditions and probable XI</a><o:p></o:p>

While India are heading into the WTC final without any match practice, England have played a two-Test series against England, winning it 1-0. Cook reckons that New Zealand’s match sharpness will help them get a favourable result in the WTC final. <o:p></o:p>

"New Zealand are going to win. They're two matches further into match-sharpness after the series win against England - they're used to playing under pressure and in English conditions."<o:p></o:p>

"The only thing they've got to deal with is the selection question - and getting the balance of the side right. I hope they go in with Ajaz Patel, the left-arm spinner.<o:p></o:p>

"But that means one of their big four seam bowlers - Trent Boult, Tim Southee, Neil Wagner or Matt Henry - who have done such a good job for them, isn't going to play," he added.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

Former England captains Alastair Cook and Michael Vaughan have backed New Zealand to win the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship, against India, in Southampton, starting Friday.

Former England captains Alastair Cook and Michael Vaughan have backed New Zealand to win the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship, against India, in Southampton, starting Friday. Vaughan and Cook agreed that New Zealand are a high-class team and well capable of playing disciplined cricket with both bat and ball for long periods in the longest format of the game. "I fancy New Zealand. I know I'm going to get absolute pelters on social media for going against India. But the way New Zealand played in the two Tests against England, I think they're going to do it. They are a high-class cricket team - I like every aspect of their game," Vaughan told 'BBC'. "New Zealand play long periods of disciplined cricket, with bat and ball. They bat with a great maturity and read the situation perfectly. "If you analyse Test cricket, generally it is the side that are able to cover all the bases the longest that wins, and New Zealand are able to do that because they have a very skillful bowling attack," he added. ALSO READ: IND vs NZ, WTC Final: Weather predictions, Ageas Bowl pitch conditions and probable XI While India are heading into the WTC final without any match practice, England have played a two-Test series against England, winning it 1-0. Cook reckons that New Zealand’s match sharpness will help them get a favourable result in the WTC final. "New Zealand are going to win. They're two matches further into match-sharpness after the series win against England - they're used to playing under pressure and in English conditions." "The only thing they've got to deal with is the selection question - and getting the balance of the side right. I hope they go in with Ajaz Patel, the left-arm spinner. "But that means one of their big four seam bowlers - Trent Boult, Tim Southee, Neil Wagner or Matt Henry - who have done such a good job for them, isn't going to play," he added.

Cricket: Michael Vaughan, Alastair Cook predict winner of WTC final between India and New Zealand

Fans of cricket are eagerly waiting for the ICC World Test Championship Final, scheduled to be played from June 18 in Southampton between India and New Zealand. While the two top Test sides have played terrific cricket over the inaugural WTC cycle, the fans are looking forward to witnessing who will come victorious in the much-awaited summit clash.<o:p></o:p>

India have lost just one series in the WTC cycle, against Zealand, and would be looking to turn the tables when they take on the Black Caps in the final on Friday.<o:p></o:p>

However, the weather conditions might play spoilsport with spells of rain and overcast conditions predicted during the course of the match.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-ravindra-jadeja-just-away-46-runs-from-entering-an-elite-list-in-test-cricket-391980" hreflang="en">WTC final: Ravindra Jadeja just away 46 runs from entering an elite list in Test cricket</a><o:p></o:p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Ahead of the WTC Final, let us take a look at the day-wise weather forecast in Southampton: <o:p></o:p></h2>

Day 1-June 18<o:p></o:p>

The weather is predicted to be overcast on Day 1 with spells of showers and thunderstorms. The play is likely to be affected by the weather and the match might lose a few overs. <o:p></o:p>

Day 2- June 19<o:p></o:p>

The weather conditions on Day 2 will gradually improve. While it is expected to remain overcast, not much rain is anticipated by the experts. However, with fickle English conditions, one can never predict when rain gods decide to come into the play. <o:p></o:p>

Day 3- June 20<o:p></o:p>

Plenty of rain is expected on Day 3 with windy conditions as well. While overs are expected to be lost on Day 3, pacers will enjoy the play if they get some cricket. <o:p></o:p>

Day 4- June 21<o:p></o:p>

Partly cloudy conditions are expected on Day 4 and it will be much better than Day 3. While no rain is expected, overcast conditions might assist the pacers again, making it difficult for batters.<o:p></o:p>

Day 5- June 22<o:p></o:p>

Cloudy conditions with a spell of showers in the morning and afternoon are predicted. While overs are likely to be lost on Day 5, the players would be eager to take the field in the evening as the forecast suggests there will be a clear sky after a passage of rain in the afternoon. <o:p></o:p>

Day 6- June 23 (Reserve Day)<o:p></o:p>

If the match moves to the reserve day, the weather is expected to partly sunny and fans could expect the match to be continued without any substantial delay.<o:p></o:p>

Fans of cricket are eagerly waiting for the ICC World Test Championship Final, scheduled to be played from June 18 in Southampton between India and New Zealand. While the two top Test sides have played terrific cricket over the inaugural WTC cycle, the fans are looking forward to witnessing who will come victorious in the much-awaited summit clash.

Fans of cricket are eagerly waiting for the ICC World Test Championship Final, scheduled to be played from June 18 in Southampton between India and New Zealand. While the two top Test sides have played terrific cricket over the inaugural WTC cycle, the fans are looking forward to witnessing who will come victorious in the much-awaited summit clash. India have lost just one series in the WTC cycle, against Zealand, and would be looking to turn the tables when they take on the Black Caps in the final on Friday. However, the weather conditions might play spoilsport with spells of rain and overcast conditions predicted during the course of the match. ALSO READ: WTC final: Ravindra Jadeja just away 46 runs from entering an elite list in Test cricket Ahead of the WTC Final, let us take a look at the day-wise weather forecast in Southampton: Day 1-June 18 The weather is predicted to be overcast on Day 1 with spells of showers and thunderstorms. The play is likely to be affected by the weather and the match might lose a few overs. Day 2- June 19 The weather conditions on Day 2 will gradually improve. While it is expected to remain overcast, not much rain is anticipated by the experts. However, with fickle English conditions, one can never predict when rain gods decide to come into the play. Day 3- June 20 Plenty of rain is expected on Day 3 with windy conditions as well. While overs are expected to be lost on Day 3, pacers will enjoy the play if they get some cricket. Day 4- June 21 Partly cloudy conditions are expected on Day 4 and it will be much better than Day 3. While no rain is expected, overcast conditions might assist the pacers again, making it difficult for batters. Day 5- June 22 Cloudy conditions with a spell of showers in the morning and afternoon are predicted. While overs are likely to be lost on Day 5, the players would be eager to take the field in the evening as the forecast suggests there will be a clear sky after a passage of rain in the afternoon. Day 6- June 23 (Reserve Day) If the match moves to the reserve day, the weather is expected to partly sunny and fans could expect the match to be continued without any substantial delay.

Cricket: WTC Final, India vs New Zealand: Day-wise weather forecast as rain threat looms in Southampton

Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has picked his India playing XI for the ICC World Test Championship, set to be played against New Zealand in Southampton from Friday. Manjrekar left out the likes of Ravindra Jadeja and Ishant Sharma as he went with an extra batsman in the line-up.<o:p></o:p>

“I’m assuming you have typical English conditions. I’m assuming there will be a mixture of sun and cloudy cover throughout the five days of the Test match if it goes the distance. So, I’m picking the team accordingly," Manjrekar said on ESPNCricinfo.<o:p></o:p>

Manjrekar went with Ravichandran Ashwin as his sole spinner for the WTC final while combining the pace troika of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami and Mohammed Siraj.<o:p></o:p>

The former India batsman backed Hanuma Vihari, who picked up an injury during the Sydney Test in Australia earlier this year, in a bid to reward him for his heroics in the match. In Manjrekar’s team, Rishabh Pant bats at number seven as he said he wants the batting line-up to run deep given the lack of practice India have had in the build-up to the WTC final.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-taylor-targets-final-redemption-in-icc-world-test-championship-391856" hreflang="en">Cricket: Taylor targets Final redemption in ICC World Test Championship</a><o:p></o:p>

“Going to have Hanuma Vihari reward him for his brilliant innings before he got injured," Manjrekar said. “India will need somebody with more compact defensive technique because the guys at the top of the order, barring (Cheteshwar) Pujara, aren’t those kinds. So I will have Hanuma Vihari at number 6. (Rishabh)Pant at 7, considering India have hardly had any practice game. I just want to make sure the batting runs deep."<o:p></o:p>

“Want Siraj, the swing bowler to be brought into the equation, and the last time Siraj bowled overseas in Australia, got a five-wicket haul. Hard to leave a bowler like him out. You will be tempted to think of Siraj because when you look at Shami, Bumrah and Ishant, they are more seam bowlers, hit-the-deck kind of bowler. Siraj might offer something different. I would go with Siraj, but India might play Ishant for obvious reasons," he said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-rohit-sharma-understands-when-to-press-accelerator-says-sachin-tendulkar-391833" hreflang="en">Cricket: Rohit Sharma understands when to press accelerator, says Sachin Tendulkar</a><o:p></o:p>

Sanjay Manjrekar’s India playing XI for WTC Final: Shubman Gill, Rohit Sharma, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (c), Ajinkya Rahane, Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj<o:p></o:p>

Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has picked his India playing XI for the ICC World Test Championship, set to be played against New Zealand in Southampton from Friday.

Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has picked his India playing XI for the ICC World Test Championship, set to be played against New Zealand in Southampton from Friday. Manjrekar left out the likes of Ravindra Jadeja and Ishant Sharma as he went with an extra batsman in the line-up. “I’m assuming you have typical English conditions. I’m assuming there will be a mixture of sun and cloudy cover throughout the five days of the Test match if it goes the distance. So, I’m picking the team accordingly," Manjrekar said on ESPNCricinfo. Manjrekar went with Ravichandran Ashwin as his sole spinner for the WTC final while combining the pace troika of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami and Mohammed Siraj. The former India batsman backed Hanuma Vihari, who picked up an injury during the Sydney Test in Australia earlier this year, in a bid to reward him for his heroics in the match. In Manjrekar’s team, Rishabh Pant bats at number seven as he said he wants the batting line-up to run deep given the lack of practice India have had in the build-up to the WTC final. ALSO READ: Cricket: Taylor targets Final redemption in ICC World Test Championship “Going to have Hanuma Vihari reward him for his brilliant innings before he got injured," Manjrekar said. “India will need somebody with more compact defensive technique because the guys at the top of the order, barring (Cheteshwar) Pujara, aren’t those kinds. So I will have Hanuma Vihari at number 6. (Rishabh)Pant at 7, considering India have hardly had any practice game. I just want to make sure the batting runs deep." “Want Siraj, the swing bowler to be brought into the equation, and the last time Siraj bowled overseas in Australia, got a five-wicket haul. Hard to leave a bowler like him out. You will be tempted to think of Siraj because when you look at Shami, Bumrah and Ishant, they are more seam bowlers, hit-the-deck kind of bowler. Siraj might offer something different. I would go with Siraj, but India might play Ishant for obvious reasons," he said. ALSO READ: Cricket: Rohit Sharma understands when to press accelerator, says Sachin Tendulkar Sanjay Manjrekar’s India playing XI for WTC Final: Shubman Gill, Rohit Sharma, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (c), Ajinkya Rahane, Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj

Cricket: Sanjay Manjrekar picks his India playing XI for WTC Final, leaves out Jadeja, Ishant

Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has said that India should go with both Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja in the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship final against New Zealand, scheduled to be played in Southampton from June 18 to 22. <o:p></o:p>

Citing the weather conditions in Southampton, Gavaskar said that pitch will “definitely be dry” and assist spinners making Ashwin and Jadeja surety in India playing XI. <o:p></o:p>

“In Southampton, it’s been boiling hot over the last few days so the pitch will definitely be dry and help spin as the match progresses, so yes both Ashwin and Jadeja will play," Gavaskar told PTI in an interview.<o:p></o:p>

Gavaskar wants both Jadeja and Ashwin in the playing XI not just because of their bowling abilities but also for the batting depth the duo provides to the Indian team in the longest format of the game. <o:p></o:p>

“That (Ashwin and Jadeja together) also gives depth to the batting as well as give a fine balance to the bowling attack. For the series later (vs England) much will depend on the weather and pitch conditions."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-taylor-targets-final-redemption-in-icc-world-test-championship-391856" hreflang="en">Cricket: Taylor targets Final redemption in ICC World Test Championship</a><o:p></o:p>

Gavaskar is not bothered about India’s lack of practice ahead of the WTC final and England series as he said that the team has a good blend of youth and experience with players who have played in English conditions in the past. <o:p></o:p>

“(In) today’s tours there are barely one or two practice games before the Test series begins and the Indian team has had intra-squad matches so they have had that practice.<o:p></o:p>

“The team is a good blend of youth and experience and most of the players have been to England several times so they know the conditions and what to expect," said the former India captain.<o:p></o:p>

This will also be India’s chance to win their first ICC trophy under the leadership of Virat Kohli.&nbsp;

<h2 class="MsoNormal">The squads:</h2>

India: Virat Kohli (captain), Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant, Wriddhiman Saha, Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma, Mohammad Shami, Md Siraj, Umesh Yadav.

New Zealand: Kane Williamson (captain), Tom Blundell, Trent Boult, Devon Conway, Colin de Grandhomme, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Tom Latham, Henry Nicholls, Ajaz Patel, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor, Neil Wagner, BJ Watling, Will Young.

Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has said that India should go with both Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja in the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship final against New Zealand, scheduled to be played in Southampton from June 18 to 22.

Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has said that India should go with both Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja in the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship final against New Zealand, scheduled to be played in Southampton from June 18 to 22. Citing the weather conditions in Southampton, Gavaskar said that pitch will “definitely be dry” and assist spinners making Ashwin and Jadeja surety in India playing XI. “In Southampton, it’s been boiling hot over the last few days so the pitch will definitely be dry and help spin as the match progresses, so yes both Ashwin and Jadeja will play," Gavaskar told PTI in an interview. Gavaskar wants both Jadeja and Ashwin in the playing XI not just because of their bowling abilities but also for the batting depth the duo provides to the Indian team in the longest format of the game. “That (Ashwin and Jadeja together) also gives depth to the batting as well as give a fine balance to the bowling attack. For the series later (vs England) much will depend on the weather and pitch conditions." ALSO READ: Cricket: Taylor targets Final redemption in ICC World Test Championship Gavaskar is not bothered about India’s lack of practice ahead of the WTC final and England series as he said that the team has a good blend of youth and experience with players who have played in English conditions in the past. “(In) today’s tours there are barely one or two practice games before the Test series begins and the Indian team has had intra-squad matches so they have had that practice. “The team is a good blend of youth and experience and most of the players have been to England several times so they know the conditions and what to expect," said the former India captain. This will also be India’s chance to win their first ICC trophy under the leadership of Virat Kohli. The squads: India: Virat Kohli (captain), Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant, Wriddhiman Saha, Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma, Mohammad Shami, Md Siraj, Umesh Yadav. New Zealand: Kane Williamson (captain), Tom Blundell, Trent Boult, Devon Conway, Colin de Grandhomme, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Tom Latham, Henry Nicholls, Ajaz Patel, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor, Neil Wagner, BJ Watling, Will Young.

Cricket: 'Pitch will definitely spin' - Sunil Gavaskar wants both Ashwin and Jadeja in India playing XI for WTC Final

When New Zealand lost the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2019, Ross Taylor thought he might have missed his last chance at winning a major final.

Two years later, the Black Caps batsman is back in England, looking to make amends after the Super Over loss at Lord’s as New Zealand and India prepare to face off in the ICC World Test Championship Final in Southampton.

And the 37-year-old admits that had he come out on the right side of that dramatic finale, there is a very good chance he would have called it a day.&nbsp;

He said: “It was disappointing to have lost that match at Lord’s a couple of years ago. When you lose and you’re at the age that I was, you think that might be the last time I ever get to play a World Cup final, so it’s nice for me to be here.&nbsp;

“If we had won that game, I might have retired after that, so I’m glad that I didn’t and that I’m here today.

“I just think it’s really exciting to be here, the whole New Zealand side are really excited, it’s going to be a great occasion, playing against India. We’ve only been number one for a few weeks, they have been number one for five or six years so they are going to be a really hard opposition to play against, but we’re looking forward to that.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-looking-forward-to-the-challenge-ross-taylor-eager-to-face-very-tough-opposition-india-391692" hreflang="en">WTC Final: 'Looking forward to the challenge' - Ross Taylor eager to face 'very tough opposition' India</a>

While Taylor was considering retirement in 2019, one man who will be calling time on his Test career after the Final is New Zealand wicket-keeper BJ Watling.&nbsp;

The 35-year-old made his Test debut back in 2009 and is set to make his 75th&nbsp;and final appearance for New Zealand in the longest format of the game, earning high praise from his coach Gary Stead.

Stead said: “BJ is a fantastic player, a great team man. He’s turned himself into, I think, one of the best keeper-batsmen in the world over the past 10 years of him playing. Let’s also remember he was a manufactured keeper as such, it wasn’t his first thing to do. The way he’s developed himself and continued to look to get better over that period of time is pretty amazing.

“I don’t think we as a team will realise how much we’ll miss BJ in the dressing room and in the role he is in until he’s not there. He’s a quiet individual but when he speaks, people listen. He’s very popular among the whole team. He will be a sad loss for us but we want to celebrate in style hopefully, and send him out on the right note.”&nbsp;

Pujara looking forward to WTC Final:&nbsp;For India batsman Cheteshwar Pujara, a Test specialist, the ICC World Test Championship offers a rare opportunity to play in a major final.&nbsp;

And the 33-year-old is relishing the opportunity as India ramp up their preparations following an inter-squad warm-up match.

He said: “Personally, it means a lot to me. Playing one format, the Test format, this is the first time we are playing the World Test Championship Finals. As a team we have worked over a period of time, you play so many series at home and away from home. To be at the top requires a lot of hard work.

“It’s like playing a World Cup final in any format. This is the first time in the Test format, but playing an ODI World Cup final or even a T20 World Cup final, it’s very similar to that. Personally, I’m looking forward to it, and as a team we are looking forward to it.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-wtc-format-helps-as-test-cricket-needs-to-survive-says-cheteshwar-pujara-391685" hreflang="en">Cricket: WTC format helps as Test cricket needs to survive, says Cheteshwar Pujara</a>

“It will be challenging but we have been through a lot of preparation recently. The time we have had here, in the last nine or 10 days, we have tried to use it to the fullest. As a team, we are very well-prepared. We have the experience, most of the guys have played in England in the past, so I think we are up for the challenge, so we are very confident.”&nbsp;

The squads:

India:&nbsp;Virat Kohli (captain), Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant, Wriddhiman Saha, Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma, Mohammad Shami, Md Siraj, Umesh Yadav.

New Zealand:&nbsp;Kane Williamson (captain), Tom Blundell, Trent Boult, Devon Conway, Colin de Grandhomme, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Tom Latham, Henry Nicholls, Ajaz Patel, Tim Southee,&nbsp;Ross Taylor, Neil Wagner, BJ Watling, Will Young.

When New Zealand lost the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2019, Ross Taylor thought he might have missed his last chance at winning a major final. Two years later, the Black Caps batsman is back in England, looking to make amends after the Super Over loss at Lord’s as New Zealand and India prepare to face off in the ICC World Test Championship Final in Southampton.

When New Zealand lost the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2019, Ross Taylor thought he might have missed his last chance at winning a major final. Two years later, the Black Caps batsman is back in England, looking to make amends after the Super Over loss at Lord’s as New Zealand and India prepare to face off in the ICC World Test Championship Final in Southampton. And the 37-year-old admits that had he come out on the right side of that dramatic finale, there is a very good chance he would have called it a day. He said: “It was disappointing to have lost that match at Lord’s a couple of years ago. When you lose and you’re at the age that I was, you think that might be the last time I ever get to play a World Cup final, so it’s nice for me to be here. “If we had won that game, I might have retired after that, so I’m glad that I didn’t and that I’m here today. “I just think it’s really exciting to be here, the whole New Zealand side are really excited, it’s going to be a great occasion, playing against India. We’ve only been number one for a few weeks, they have been number one for five or six years so they are going to be a really hard opposition to play against, but we’re looking forward to that.” ALSO READ: WTC Final: 'Looking forward to the challenge' - Ross Taylor eager to face 'very tough opposition' India While Taylor was considering retirement in 2019, one man who will be calling time on his Test career after the Final is New Zealand wicket-keeper BJ Watling. The 35-year-old made his Test debut back in 2009 and is set to make his 75th and final appearance for New Zealand in the longest format of the game, earning high praise from his coach Gary Stead. Stead said: “BJ is a fantastic player, a great team man. He’s turned himself into, I think, one of the best keeper-batsmen in the world over the past 10 years of him playing. Let’s also remember he was a manufactured keeper as such, it wasn’t his first thing to do. The way he’s developed himself and continued to look to get better over that period of time is pretty amazing. “I don’t think we as a team will realise how much we’ll miss BJ in the dressing room and in the role he is in until he’s not there. He’s a quiet individual but when he speaks, people listen. He’s very popular among the whole team. He will be a sad loss for us but we want to celebrate in style hopefully, and send him out on the right note.” Pujara looking forward to WTC Final: For India batsman Cheteshwar Pujara, a Test specialist, the ICC World Test Championship offers a rare opportunity to play in a major final. And the 33-year-old is relishing the opportunity as India ramp up their preparations following an inter-squad warm-up match. He said: “Personally, it means a lot to me. Playing one format, the Test format, this is the first time we are playing the World Test Championship Finals. As a team we have worked over a period of time, you play so many series at home and away from home. To be at the top requires a lot of hard work. “It’s like playing a World Cup final in any format. This is the first time in the Test format, but playing an ODI World Cup final or even a T20 World Cup final, it’s very similar to that. Personally, I’m looking forward to it, and as a team we are looking forward to it. ALSO READ: Cricket: WTC format helps as Test cricket needs to survive, says Cheteshwar Pujara “It will be challenging but we have been through a lot of preparation recently. The time we have had here, in the last nine or 10 days, we have tried to use it to the fullest. As a team, we are very well-prepared. We have the experience, most of the guys have played in England in the past, so I think we are up for the challenge, so we are very confident.” The squads: India: Virat Kohli (captain), Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant, Wriddhiman Saha, Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma, Mohammad Shami, Md Siraj, Umesh Yadav. New Zealand: Kane Williamson (captain), Tom Blundell, Trent Boult, Devon Conway, Colin de Grandhomme, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Tom Latham, Henry Nicholls, Ajaz Patel, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor, Neil Wagner, BJ Watling, Will Young.

Cricket: Taylor targets Final redemption in ICC World Test Championship

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Tuesday announced a 15-member squad for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final, set to be played from June 18 to 22 at the Rose Bowl in Southampton.<o:p></o:p>

Virat Kohli will lead the Indian team for the WTC Final with Ajinkya Rahane being his deputy. The pace department have been completed by the likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma, Mohammad Shami, Mohammed Siraj and Umesh Yadav while both Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin complete the spin duo. <o:p></o:p>

The likes of Shardul Thakur and Washington Sundar miss out on a spot due to tight competition. The duo rose to the occasion when India missed their star players in the historic tour of Australia.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-rahul-dravid-will-be-indias-coach-for-sri-lanka-tour-confirms-sourav-ganguly-391621" hreflang="en">Cricket: Rahul Dravid will be India's coach for Sri Lanka tour, confirms Sourav Ganguly</a><o:p></o:p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">India squad for World Test Championship Final vs New Zealand:<o:p></o:p></h2>

<ul>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Virat Kohli<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Rohit Sharma<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Shubman Gill<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Ajinkya Rahane</li>
	<li class="MsoNormal"><o:p>Cheteshwar Pujara</o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Hanuma Vihari<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Rishabh Pant<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Wriddhiman Saha<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">R Ashwin<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Ravindra Jadeja<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Jasprit Bumrah<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Mohammad Shami<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Umesh Yadav<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Mohammed Siraj</li>
	<li class="MsoNormal"><o:p>Ishant Sharma</o:p></li>
</ul>

However, given the quality of players at the helm, Indian management will be having some headaches in a bid to finalise the playing XI for the much-awaited WTC Final against New Zealand.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Tuesday announced a 15-member squad for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final, set to be played from June 18 to 22 at the Rose Bowl in Southampton.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Tuesday announced a 15-member squad for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final, set to be played from June 18 to 22 at the Rose Bowl in Southampton. Virat Kohli will lead the Indian team for the WTC Final with Ajinkya Rahane being his deputy. The pace department have been completed by the likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma, Mohammad Shami, Mohammed Siraj and Umesh Yadav while both Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin complete the spin duo. The likes of Shardul Thakur and Washington Sundar miss out on a spot due to tight competition. The duo rose to the occasion when India missed their star players in the historic tour of Australia. ALSO READ: Cricket: Rahul Dravid will be India's coach for Sri Lanka tour, confirms Sourav Ganguly India squad for World Test Championship Final vs New Zealand: Virat Kohli Rohit Sharma Shubman Gill Ajinkya Rahane Cheteshwar Pujara Hanuma Vihari Rishabh Pant Wriddhiman Saha R Ashwin Ravindra Jadeja Jasprit Bumrah Mohammad Shami Umesh Yadav Mohammed Siraj Ishant Sharma However, given the quality of players at the helm, Indian management will be having some headaches in a bid to finalise the playing XI for the much-awaited WTC Final against New Zealand.

Cricket: BCCI announces 15-member squad for WTC Final against New Zealand

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday announced a star-studded commentary panel for the inaugural ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final, set to be played between India and New Zealand in Southampton from June 18 to 22.<o:p></o:p>

The commentary panel for the inaugural ICC WTC Final will include stalwarts of the game, experienced broadcasters, and fresh, young voices. ICC Hall of Famers and Test match legends Sunil Gavaskar and Kumar Sangakkara will be joined by experienced broadcasters Nasser Hussain, Simon Doull, Isa Guha, Ian Bishop and Michael Atherton. Bringing fresh perspective on the two finalists will be former New Zealand player-turned-batting coach Craig McMillan and India’s Dinesh Karthik.<o:p></o:p>

There has been immense anticipation surrounding the WTC final with fans eagerly waiting to see who will lift the ICC Test Mace after winning the summit clash at the Rose Bowl. <o:p></o:p>

The star-studded commentary panel will ensure the fans get the proper insights into the game in what has been tipped as a match for ages between the two top Test-playing nations.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-vvs-laxman-suggests-changes-to-make-world-test-championship-more-interesting-391583" hreflang="en">Cricket: VVS Laxman suggests changes to make World Test Championship more interesting</a><o:p></o:p>

Commenting on the inaugural ICC World Test Championship Final, Dinesh Karthik said: “The inaugural WTC Final is the much-anticipated pinnacle event in Test cricket, and I am looking forward to an exciting match between India and New Zealand. There is so much at stake here, both teams look evenly matched and what makes it even more interesting is that they are going to be playing at a neutral venue. It’s an honour to work as a broadcaster on this historic event.”<o:p></o:p>

Nasser Hussain added: “We have seen some fantastic Test cricket being played in the last two years as part of the World Test Championship, some newer heroes of the game have emerged and the Test format has seen increased interest across the globe, especially over the last few months. The inaugural WTC final will be an exciting contest between two very worthy opponents. I am looking forward to this contest.” <o:p></o:p>

Kumar Sangakkara added: “India and New Zealand have both earned their place in the World Test Championship Final. I am looking forward to some glorious cricket from both sides and wish the teams the very best in this highly anticipated tournament finale.”<o:p></o:p>

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday announced a star-studded commentary panel for the inaugural ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final, set to be played between India and New Zealand in Southampton from June 18 to 22.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday announced a star-studded commentary panel for the inaugural ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final, set to be played between India and New Zealand in Southampton from June 18 to 22. The commentary panel for the inaugural ICC WTC Final will include stalwarts of the game, experienced broadcasters, and fresh, young voices. ICC Hall of Famers and Test match legends Sunil Gavaskar and Kumar Sangakkara will be joined by experienced broadcasters Nasser Hussain, Simon Doull, Isa Guha, Ian Bishop and Michael Atherton. Bringing fresh perspective on the two finalists will be former New Zealand player-turned-batting coach Craig McMillan and India’s Dinesh Karthik. There has been immense anticipation surrounding the WTC final with fans eagerly waiting to see who will lift the ICC Test Mace after winning the summit clash at the Rose Bowl. The star-studded commentary panel will ensure the fans get the proper insights into the game in what has been tipped as a match for ages between the two top Test-playing nations. ALSO READ: Cricket: VVS Laxman suggests changes to make World Test Championship more interesting Commenting on the inaugural ICC World Test Championship Final, Dinesh Karthik said: “The inaugural WTC Final is the much-anticipated pinnacle event in Test cricket, and I am looking forward to an exciting match between India and New Zealand. There is so much at stake here, both teams look evenly matched and what makes it even more interesting is that they are going to be playing at a neutral venue. It’s an honour to work as a broadcaster on this historic event.” Nasser Hussain added: “We have seen some fantastic Test cricket being played in the last two years as part of the World Test Championship, some newer heroes of the game have emerged and the Test format has seen increased interest across the globe, especially over the last few months. The inaugural WTC final will be an exciting contest between two very worthy opponents. I am looking forward to this contest.” Kumar Sangakkara added: “India and New Zealand have both earned their place in the World Test Championship Final. I am looking forward to some glorious cricket from both sides and wish the teams the very best in this highly anticipated tournament finale.”

Cricket: ICC announces star-studded commentary panel for WTC Final

The ICC World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton, starting from June 18, is set to witness a pacy and bouncy pitch. <o:p></o:p>

Head groundsman at Southampton, Simon Lee is aiming to produce a competitive track with early help for pacers and with some assistance for spinners later in the summit clash.<o:p></o:p>

"Pitch preparation for this Test is a little simpler as we are a neutral venue, we are guided by the ICC, but we all want is a good pitch that offers an even contest between the teams," Lee told ESPNcricinfo.<o:p></o:p>

"For me personally I just want to get something out that has some pace, bounce and carry in the pitch.<o:p></o:p>

"It can be a hard thing to do in England as the weather doesn't help us most of the time, but the forecast in the build-up is good with a lot of sun, so we are hopeful that we'll get some pace and a hard pitch without over-rolling it and killing it."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-kathryn-bryce-mushfiqur-rahim-voted-icc-players-of-the-month-for-may-2021-391336" hreflang="en">Cricket: Kathryn Bryce, Mushfiqur Rahim voted ICC players of the month for May 2021</a><o:p></o:p>

With both India and New Zealand having high-quality pace attacks, Lee intends to keep them in the match at all times.<o:p></o:p>

"Pace just makes red-ball cricket exciting, I'm a cricket fan and I want to produce a pitch where the cricket lovers have to watch every ball in case they miss something, be that some class batting or an amazing spell of bowling.<o:p></o:p>

"A maiden over can be quite exciting if it's a battle of skill between both bowler and batter. So, yeah, if we can get some pace and bounce in the pitch, but not too one-sided towards seam movement, we'll be happy," he said.<o:p></o:p>

However, Lee added that due to the forecast being fine for cricket, the pitches tend to dry out quickly and hence, bringing the spinners into the game. While India have two world class spinners in Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja, New Zealand are thin on this department.<o:p></o:p>

"As I said, the forecast is looking okay, the pitches dry out very quickly here as we do have some sand mixed into our cricket loam, which helped it hold together when the pitches were re-laid some 10 years ago, but it can help it spin as well.<o:p></o:p>

"To get to that point we'll need the seamers to bowl, some runs scored, and make some rough along the way. The pitch will always get talked about a lot, but you need the players to play their part to make a good game," the curator said.<o:p></o:p>

"...so if we produce a pitch that allows the players to show their skills at the top level and we have an entertaining game for the fans, we will be more than satisfied."<o:p></o:p>

India will look to win their first ICC trophy under the captaincy of Virat Kohli while New Zealand would be looking to pull the strings to register a win for ages.<o:p></o:p>

The ICC World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton, starting from June 18, is set to witness a pacy and bouncy pitch.

The ICC World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton, starting from June 18, is set to witness a pacy and bouncy pitch. Head groundsman at Southampton, Simon Lee is aiming to produce a competitive track with early help for pacers and with some assistance for spinners later in the summit clash. "Pitch preparation for this Test is a little simpler as we are a neutral venue, we are guided by the ICC, but we all want is a good pitch that offers an even contest between the teams," Lee told ESPNcricinfo. "For me personally I just want to get something out that has some pace, bounce and carry in the pitch. "It can be a hard thing to do in England as the weather doesn't help us most of the time, but the forecast in the build-up is good with a lot of sun, so we are hopeful that we'll get some pace and a hard pitch without over-rolling it and killing it." ALSO READ: Cricket: Kathryn Bryce, Mushfiqur Rahim voted ICC players of the month for May 2021 With both India and New Zealand having high-quality pace attacks, Lee intends to keep them in the match at all times. "Pace just makes red-ball cricket exciting, I'm a cricket fan and I want to produce a pitch where the cricket lovers have to watch every ball in case they miss something, be that some class batting or an amazing spell of bowling. "A maiden over can be quite exciting if it's a battle of skill between both bowler and batter. So, yeah, if we can get some pace and bounce in the pitch, but not too one-sided towards seam movement, we'll be happy," he said. However, Lee added that due to the forecast being fine for cricket, the pitches tend to dry out quickly and hence, bringing the spinners into the game. While India have two world class spinners in Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja, New Zealand are thin on this department. "As I said, the forecast is looking okay, the pitches dry out very quickly here as we do have some sand mixed into our cricket loam, which helped it hold together when the pitches were re-laid some 10 years ago, but it can help it spin as well. "To get to that point we'll need the seamers to bowl, some runs scored, and make some rough along the way. The pitch will always get talked about a lot, but you need the players to play their part to make a good game," the curator said. "...so if we produce a pitch that allows the players to show their skills at the top level and we have an entertaining game for the fans, we will be more than satisfied." India will look to win their first ICC trophy under the captaincy of Virat Kohli while New Zealand would be looking to pull the strings to register a win for ages.

Cricket: How will the pitch play during WTC Final? Southampton head groundsman reveals details

Indian players are heading into the ICC World Test Championship final against New Zealand with a ‘positive’ mindset, key batsman Cheteshwar Pujara has said.<o:p></o:p>

The final of WTC, set to be played in Southampton from June 18, comes after two years of Test series to find the world’s top two Test teams.<o:p></o:p>

The Blackcaps head into the summit clash with a confidence-boosting 1-0 Test series win against hosts England whereas Virat Kohli and Co continue to gear up for the match by playing an intra-squad friendly match. <o:p></o:p>

"We are not worried about that," Pujara said about New Zealand's recent Test series in England. <o:p></o:p>

"We will try and focus on these 10 to 12 days which we have for our preparation," the batsman said in a video shared on the Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) website.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-how-the-pitch-will-play-during-wtc-final-southampton-head-groundsman-reveals-details-391371" hreflang="en">Cricket: How the pitch will play during WTC Final? Southampton head groundsman reveals details</a><o:p></o:p>

"If we utilise these days well I feel that our team will be up for the final."<o:p></o:p>

New Zealand won the second Test in Birmingham after drawing the first Test at Lord’s.<o:p></o:p>

"When it comes to finals we will give our best and we know that our team has the potential to do well and win the Championship," Pujara said. <o:p></o:p>

Pujara, who has the experience of playing County cricket in England, said adjusting to the weather conditions will be crucial to India’s success in the WTC final.<o:p></o:p>

"Playing in different conditions in a single day here is the most challenging part for a batsman because if it rains you go off the field and then suddenly it stops raining and you start again," said Pujara.<o:p></o:p>

"So there are breaks in between and this is where you need to understand and accept the challenge. Mentally you have to be strong; your concentration needs to be up to the mark."<o:p></o:p>

The World Test Championship final will bring the first-ever such cycle to an end and after that, the new cycle will begin with a five-Test series between England and India, starting from August 4.<o:p></o:p>

Indian players are heading into the ICC World Test Championship final against New Zealand with a ‘positive’ mindset, key batsman Cheteshwar Pujara has said. The final of WTC, set to be played in Southampton from June 18, comes after two years of Test series to find the world’s top two Test teams.

Indian players are heading into the ICC World Test Championship final against New Zealand with a ‘positive’ mindset, key batsman Cheteshwar Pujara has said. The final of WTC, set to be played in Southampton from June 18, comes after two years of Test series to find the world’s top two Test teams. The Blackcaps head into the summit clash with a confidence-boosting 1-0 Test series win against hosts England whereas Virat Kohli and Co continue to gear up for the match by playing an intra-squad friendly match. "We are not worried about that," Pujara said about New Zealand's recent Test series in England. "We will try and focus on these 10 to 12 days which we have for our preparation," the batsman said in a video shared on the Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) website. ALSO READ: Cricket: How the pitch will play during WTC Final? Southampton head groundsman reveals details "If we utilise these days well I feel that our team will be up for the final." New Zealand won the second Test in Birmingham after drawing the first Test at Lord’s. "When it comes to finals we will give our best and we know that our team has the potential to do well and win the Championship," Pujara said. Pujara, who has the experience of playing County cricket in England, said adjusting to the weather conditions will be crucial to India’s success in the WTC final. "Playing in different conditions in a single day here is the most challenging part for a batsman because if it rains you go off the field and then suddenly it stops raining and you start again," said Pujara. "So there are breaks in between and this is where you need to understand and accept the challenge. Mentally you have to be strong; your concentration needs to be up to the mark." The World Test Championship final will bring the first-ever such cycle to an end and after that, the new cycle will begin with a five-Test series between England and India, starting from August 4.

Cricket: India 'not worried' about New Zealand's advantage in WTC Final, says Cheteshwar Pujara

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday announced the list of match officials for the inaugural ICC World Test Championship final, scheduled to be played between India and New Zealand at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton from June 18-22.<o:p></o:p>

Chris Broad of the ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees has been named as the match referee for the much-awaited game between India and New Zealand whereas Richard Illingworth and Michael Gough of the ICC Elite Panel of Umpires have been named the on-field officials for the WTC final.<o:p></o:p>

Whereas, Richard Kettleborough, also a member of the elite panel, will be the third umpire for the game. Alex Wharf of the ICC International Panel of Umpires will be the fourth official. <o:p></o:p>

"We are pleased to announce an experienced team of match officials for the final of the World Test Championship," said ICC Senior Manager -- Umpires and Referees, Adrian Griffith.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-top-5-run-scorers-in-world-test-championship-cycle-2019-2021-390168" hreflang="en">Cricket: Top 5 run-scorers in World Test Championship cycle 2019-2021</a>

"It has not been an easy time with the pandemic, but we are fortunate to have a group of officials at the top of their field who have been consistent over the years in this momentous fixture. We wish them all the very best," he added. <o:p></o:p>

The New Zealand team, after the second Test against England, will shift from ECB’s bio-secure environment to the WTC final bubble on June 15 and will undergo regular testing for COVID-19, prior and post-arrival to Southampton. <o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, India are inside the bio-secure bubble at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton. <o:p></o:p>

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday announced the list of match officials for the inaugural ICC World Test Championship final, scheduled to be played between India and New Zealand at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton from June 18-22.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday announced the list of match officials for the inaugural ICC World Test Championship final, scheduled to be played between India and New Zealand at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton from June 18-22. Chris Broad of the ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees has been named as the match referee for the much-awaited game between India and New Zealand whereas Richard Illingworth and Michael Gough of the ICC Elite Panel of Umpires have been named the on-field officials for the WTC final. Whereas, Richard Kettleborough, also a member of the elite panel, will be the third umpire for the game. Alex Wharf of the ICC International Panel of Umpires will be the fourth official. "We are pleased to announce an experienced team of match officials for the final of the World Test Championship," said ICC Senior Manager -- Umpires and Referees, Adrian Griffith. ALSO READ: Cricket: Top 5 run-scorers in World Test Championship cycle 2019-2021 "It has not been an easy time with the pandemic, but we are fortunate to have a group of officials at the top of their field who have been consistent over the years in this momentous fixture. We wish them all the very best," he added. The New Zealand team, after the second Test against England, will shift from ECB’s bio-secure environment to the WTC final bubble on June 15 and will undergo regular testing for COVID-19, prior and post-arrival to Southampton. Meanwhile, India are inside the bio-secure bubble at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton.

Cricket: ICC announces match officials for WTC final; Richard Illingworth, Michael Gough named on-field umpires

Legendary former Indian cricketer Dilip Vengsarkar reckons that the lack of preparation heading into the ICC World Test Championship final “may hurt” the Indian cricket team. Vengsarkar’s comments come after Kohli, in the pre-departure press conference, said that lack of practice is not a big worry for the team. <o:p></o:p>

While India are undergoing quarantine in Southampton, New Zealand are taking on England in a two-Test series before the World Test Championship final. Opining on the matter, Vengsarkar said that despite Kohli and Rohit being world-class players, the lack of matches in the build-up to the event could hamper their performance in the WTC final. <o:p></o:p>

"Well he (Kohli) has been around for a long time. He (Kohli) is one of the best batsmen in world cricket at the moment. Players like Virat or Rohit Sharma, they are world-class players, they take a lot of pride in their performance and pride in winning matches for India," Vengsarkar, the former chairman of selectors, told PTI on Sunday. <o:p></o:p>

"It is a good thing and both are in very good form. But having said that, I think lack of match practice may hurt them in the first Test match that is what I feel," Vengsarkar said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-mike-hesson-compares-virat-kohli-and-kane-williamsons-captaincy-styles-ahead-of-wtc-final-389774" hreflang="en">Cricket: Mike Hesson compares Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson's captaincy styles ahead of WTC Final</a>

Vengsarkar further said that the two-Test series against England will give a perfect opportunity for the Black Caps to gear up for the much-awaited WTC final. <o:p></o:p>

"India is a better team and in great form. The advantage with New Zealand, it is a low profile team, the thing is that they are getting to play two Test matches before the Test match (World Test Championship final)," Vengsarkar said.

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"So it is important... it is a slight advantage to New Zealand... because they have already played two Test matches before they start (of the WTC final), they are acclimatised to the conditions," reckoned Vengsarkar.<o:p></o:p>

"What I feel is that India should have played games, you know matches, at least two-three games before the Test match (WTC), to get acclimatised to the conditions."<o:p></o:p>

Legendary former Indian cricketer Dilip Vengsarkar reckons that the lack of preparation heading into the ICC World Test Championship final “may hurt” the Indian cricket team.

Legendary former Indian cricketer Dilip Vengsarkar reckons that the lack of preparation heading into the ICC World Test Championship final “may hurt” the Indian cricket team. Vengsarkar’s comments come after Kohli, in the pre-departure press conference, said that lack of practice is not a big worry for the team. While India are undergoing quarantine in Southampton, New Zealand are taking on England in a two-Test series before the World Test Championship final. Opining on the matter, Vengsarkar said that despite Kohli and Rohit being world-class players, the lack of matches in the build-up to the event could hamper their performance in the WTC final. "Well he (Kohli) has been around for a long time. He (Kohli) is one of the best batsmen in world cricket at the moment. Players like Virat or Rohit Sharma, they are world-class players, they take a lot of pride in their performance and pride in winning matches for India," Vengsarkar, the former chairman of selectors, told PTI on Sunday. "It is a good thing and both are in very good form. But having said that, I think lack of match practice may hurt them in the first Test match that is what I feel," Vengsarkar said. ALSO READ: Cricket: Mike Hesson compares Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson's captaincy styles ahead of WTC Final Vengsarkar further said that the two-Test series against England will give a perfect opportunity for the Black Caps to gear up for the much-awaited WTC final. "India is a better team and in great form. The advantage with New Zealand, it is a low profile team, the thing is that they are getting to play two Test matches before the Test match (World Test Championship final)," Vengsarkar said. ALSO READ: Cricket: Sri Lankan players refuse to sign new contracts but ready to feature in England tour "So it is important... it is a slight advantage to New Zealand... because they have already played two Test matches before they start (of the WTC final), they are acclimatised to the conditions," reckoned Vengsarkar. "What I feel is that India should have played games, you know matches, at least two-three games before the Test match (WTC), to get acclimatised to the conditions."

Cricket: Lack of match practice may hurt Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma in WTC Final, opines Dilip Vengsarkar

Former New Zealand head coach Mike Hesson is expecting the upcoming World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand to be an equal contest. India take on New Zealand in a high-octane final of the World Test Championship at the Rose Bowl in Southampton, starting from June 18.<o:p></o:p>

Hesson reckons that it will be an exciting game between the two top sides in the longest format of the game while adding no injury concerns for both the teams will make it a worthwhile watch for the fans.<o:p></o:p>

"They are even. The fact that it’s being played at a neutral venue also makes the WTC final an even contest. I think both sides are going to be at their strongest, which is great. Assuming there are no injuries in the next couple of weeks, both sides will be at full strength and we are in for an exciting Test," the former New Zealand coach told TimesofIndia.com.

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Hesson has worked with both New Zealand captain Kane Williamson and Indian skipper Virat Kohli. While Hesson was the head coach of New Zealand in past, he is currently the Director of Cricket at RCB with Kohli leading the franchise.<o:p></o:p>

Comparing the two, Hesson said that Williamson is a slow-burn, who will seek a perfect time to put pressure on the opponent while Kohli wants to attack from the word go. <o:p></o:p>

"Both are very good leaders and yes, both are different in their style of captaincy. Kane is more of a slow-burn in the sense that he likes to put pressure over a period of time. Virat, on the other hand, is constantly looking for ways to put his side in the driver’s seat. The WTC final will be a test of captaincy for both Kane and Virat. As the wicket changes from day to day, it will be interesting to see how both Kane and Virat make those little tweaks in their strategies to stay ahead," Hesson said.

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New Zealand are currently playing a two-Test series against England whereas India are undergoing quarantine in Southampton.<o:p></o:p>

Former New Zealand head coach Mike Hesson is expecting the upcoming World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand to be an equal contest. India take on New Zealand in a high-octane final of the World Test Championship at the Rose Bowl in Southampton, starting from June 18.

Former New Zealand head coach Mike Hesson is expecting the upcoming World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand to be an equal contest. India take on New Zealand in a high-octane final of the World Test Championship at the Rose Bowl in Southampton, starting from June 18. Hesson reckons that it will be an exciting game between the two top sides in the longest format of the game while adding no injury concerns for both the teams will make it a worthwhile watch for the fans. "They are even. The fact that it’s being played at a neutral venue also makes the WTC final an even contest. I think both sides are going to be at their strongest, which is great. Assuming there are no injuries in the next couple of weeks, both sides will be at full strength and we are in for an exciting Test," the former New Zealand coach told TimesofIndia.com. ALSO READ: Cricket: 'I wanted to perform and contribute to the team's win': Kuldeep Yadav Hesson has worked with both New Zealand captain Kane Williamson and Indian skipper Virat Kohli. While Hesson was the head coach of New Zealand in past, he is currently the Director of Cricket at RCB with Kohli leading the franchise. Comparing the two, Hesson said that Williamson is a slow-burn, who will seek a perfect time to put pressure on the opponent while Kohli wants to attack from the word go. "Both are very good leaders and yes, both are different in their style of captaincy. Kane is more of a slow-burn in the sense that he likes to put pressure over a period of time. Virat, on the other hand, is constantly looking for ways to put his side in the driver’s seat. The WTC final will be a test of captaincy for both Kane and Virat. As the wicket changes from day to day, it will be interesting to see how both Kane and Virat make those little tweaks in their strategies to stay ahead," Hesson said. ALSO READ: Cricket: Jamieson dismisses skipper Root on the very first ball of the day - WATCH New Zealand are currently playing a two-Test series against England whereas India are undergoing quarantine in Southampton.

Cricket: Mike Hesson compares Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson's captaincy styles ahead of WTC Final

The rise of Indian talents in the international circuit has been immense in the last couple of years. The Indian cricket team has produced many exciting talents that have won matches for India, at home and away. As Team India gears up for a gruelling tour of the UK, wherein they will play the final of ICC World Test Championship and five-Test series against England. <o:p></o:p>

As India gear up for the intense matches in the longest format of the game, former Indian cricketer Dilip Vengsarkar has given his take on who could be the game-changer for the visitors in the WTC final and series against England. <o:p></o:p>

While the Indian team has quite a few young match-winners at its helm with Mohammed Siraj, Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant, Washington Sundar, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur in the touring team, Vengsarkar said that the role of wicketkeeper-batsman Pant could be game-changing for India.

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“You cannot have a fixed idea about certain things. The wicketkeeper is in a very important position in the team. Besides effecting stumpings and run-outs, if he is batting well, why not? If you have someone like Rishabh Pant, who can change the complexion of the match with his batting also, that is a huge advantage for the Indian team,” Vengsarkar told CricketNext. <o:p></o:p>

“You cannot have a fixed mind and say wicket-keeping comes first. If you are improving as a wicketkeeper, why not? The same thing happened with Mahendra Singh Dhoni. He kept improving,” Vengsarkar added.

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While the WTC final is scheduled to be played from June 18 in Southampton, the five-match Test series against England commence from August 4. India will play a few intra-squad friendly matches in England to get accustomed to the conditions. <o:p></o:p>

The rise of Indian talents in the international circuit has been immense in the last couple of years. The Indian cricket team has produced many exciting talents that have won matches for India, at home and away.

The rise of Indian talents in the international circuit has been immense in the last couple of years. The Indian cricket team has produced many exciting talents that have won matches for India, at home and away. As Team India gears up for a gruelling tour of the UK, wherein they will play the final of ICC World Test Championship and five-Test series against England. As India gear up for the intense matches in the longest format of the game, former Indian cricketer Dilip Vengsarkar has given his take on who could be the game-changer for the visitors in the WTC final and series against England. While the Indian team has quite a few young match-winners at its helm with Mohammed Siraj, Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant, Washington Sundar, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur in the touring team, Vengsarkar said that the role of wicketkeeper-batsman Pant could be game-changing for India. ALSO READ: Cricket: 'Deeply regret my actions': Ollie Robinson apologises for sexist and racist tweets “You cannot have a fixed idea about certain things. The wicketkeeper is in a very important position in the team. Besides effecting stumpings and run-outs, if he is batting well, why not? If you have someone like Rishabh Pant, who can change the complexion of the match with his batting also, that is a huge advantage for the Indian team,” Vengsarkar told CricketNext. “You cannot have a fixed mind and say wicket-keeping comes first. If you are improving as a wicketkeeper, why not? The same thing happened with Mahendra Singh Dhoni. He kept improving,” Vengsarkar added. ALSO READ: Cricket: Joe Root eyes clean-sweep against New Zealand and India before Ashes While the WTC final is scheduled to be played from June 18 in Southampton, the five-match Test series against England commence from August 4. India will play a few intra-squad friendly matches in England to get accustomed to the conditions.

Cricket: Dilip Vengsarkar picks Team India's game-changers for WTC final vs New Zealand

Indian captain Virat Kohli, ahead of the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship final against New Zealand, said that the summit clash will be challenging for his team but added there is no pressure on him. The ICC World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand is set to take place in Southampton from June 18.<o:p></o:p>

Opining on the challenges India are set to face in English conditions, Kohli said it is time for the Indian team to enjoy the event as they have put immense hard work on the road to the final. <o:p></o:p>

After the WTC final, India will have a good break for a few weeks before the five-Test series against England, starting August 4. Kohli said the break will give the players time to rest and relax while adding that the period will give time for the team to regroup before an important series.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-best-of-three-final-would-be-ideal-ravi-shastri-opines-on-wtc-final-format-389009" hreflang="en">Cricket: 'Best of three final would be ideal' - Ravi Shastri opines on WTC Final format</a>

<o:p></o:p>

"WTC final will be challenging for the team. But it's time to enjoy what we've has done in past years. There's no pressure on me and there won't be in the future. It's the final, so it's time to enjoy it," Virat Kohli said in the pre-departure presser.<o:p></o:p>

"It's a great opportunity to reflect and relax. Just for the guys to roam around freely, considering that we will have a five-Test series coming. It will give us time to regroup and that is required before an important series like this," said Kohli when asked about the long gap between the WTC final and England series.

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India are set to depart to the UK in the early hours of Thursday. The Indian team will undergo hard quarantine upon landing in the UK but would be allowed to train gradually as RT-PCR tests come negative. Notably, India have already served a 14-day quarantine in India.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

Indian captain Virat Kohli, ahead of the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship final against New Zealand, said that the summit clash will be challenging for his team but added there is no pressure on him.

Indian captain Virat Kohli, ahead of the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship final against New Zealand, said that the summit clash will be challenging for his team but added there is no pressure on him. The ICC World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand is set to take place in Southampton from June 18. Opining on the challenges India are set to face in English conditions, Kohli said it is time for the Indian team to enjoy the event as they have put immense hard work on the road to the final. After the WTC final, India will have a good break for a few weeks before the five-Test series against England, starting August 4. Kohli said the break will give the players time to rest and relax while adding that the period will give time for the team to regroup before an important series. ALSO READ: Cricket: 'Best of three final would be ideal' - Ravi Shastri opines on WTC Final format "WTC final will be challenging for the team. But it's time to enjoy what we've has done in past years. There's no pressure on me and there won't be in the future. It's the final, so it's time to enjoy it," Virat Kohli said in the pre-departure presser. "It's a great opportunity to reflect and relax. Just for the guys to roam around freely, considering that we will have a five-Test series coming. It will give us time to regroup and that is required before an important series like this," said Kohli when asked about the long gap between the WTC final and England series. ALSO READ: Cricket: 'Virat is the most impactful batsman in the world', says Salman Butt India are set to depart to the UK in the early hours of Thursday. The Indian team will undergo hard quarantine upon landing in the UK but would be allowed to train gradually as RT-PCR tests come negative. Notably, India have already served a 14-day quarantine in India.

Cricket: World Test Championship Final will be challenging but it's time to enjoy - Virat Kohli

India head coach Ravi Shastri on Wednesday said that the ICC World Test Championship should have been a best of three contest going forward and not a one-off match like the upcoming India versus New Zealand match in the inaugural edition of the tournament. India depart for the UK in the early hours of Thursday to participate in the WTC against the Black Caps in Southampton, scheduled to start from June 18. <o:p></o:p>

The Virat Kohli-led outfit would go on to play five matches against England starting August 4. <o:p></o:p>

"I think ideally, in the long run, if they want to pursue with this Test championship, best of three final would be ideal. A three-match series as a culmination of two and a half years of cricket," Shastri said in the pre-departure press conference. <o:p></o:p>

"But they need to finish off the Future Tours Program (FTP) and then start all over again. So one-off is one-off, guys have earned their stripes, and this is not a team that is suddenly blossomed overnight." <o:p></o:p>

India have already completed a 14-day quarantine in India before flying to the UK whereas New Zealand are getting match practice with the two-match series against England before the WTC final.

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Shastri said that that the WTC final is going to be the biggest if not the biggest as it is being played in the toughest format of the game.<o:p></o:p>

India fly to the UK after a 14-day quarantine while New Zealand are already getting valuable practice with the two-match series underway against England. Shastri said the WTC final is a massive game. <o:p></o:p>

"See, it is the first time that you have a Test Championship final. When you look at the magnitude of the game that's going to be played, I think this is the biggest, if not the biggest ever, because it's the toughest form of the game. <o:p></o:p>

"It's a format that tests you. It's not happened over three days or three months, it's happened over two years, where teams have played each other around the world, and earned their stripes to play the finals so it's one heck of an event."<o:p></o:p>

India head coach Ravi Shastri on Wednesday said that the ICC World Test Championship should have been a best of three contest going forward and not a one-off match like the upcoming India versus New Zealand match in the inaugural edition of the tournament.

India head coach Ravi Shastri on Wednesday said that the ICC World Test Championship should have been a best of three contest going forward and not a one-off match like the upcoming India versus New Zealand match in the inaugural edition of the tournament. India depart for the UK in the early hours of Thursday to participate in the WTC against the Black Caps in Southampton, scheduled to start from June 18. The Virat Kohli-led outfit would go on to play five matches against England starting August 4. "I think ideally, in the long run, if they want to pursue with this Test championship, best of three final would be ideal. A three-match series as a culmination of two and a half years of cricket," Shastri said in the pre-departure press conference. "But they need to finish off the Future Tours Program (FTP) and then start all over again. So one-off is one-off, guys have earned their stripes, and this is not a team that is suddenly blossomed overnight." India have already completed a 14-day quarantine in India before flying to the UK whereas New Zealand are getting match practice with the two-match series against England before the WTC final. ALSO READ: Cricket: James Anderson equalises Alastair Cook's record of most England Test caps Shastri said that that the WTC final is going to be the biggest if not the biggest as it is being played in the toughest format of the game. India fly to the UK after a 14-day quarantine while New Zealand are already getting valuable practice with the two-match series underway against England. Shastri said the WTC final is a massive game. "See, it is the first time that you have a Test Championship final. When you look at the magnitude of the game that's going to be played, I think this is the biggest, if not the biggest ever, because it's the toughest form of the game. "It's a format that tests you. It's not happened over three days or three months, it's happened over two years, where teams have played each other around the world, and earned their stripes to play the finals so it's one heck of an event."

Cricket: 'Best of three final would be ideal' - Ravi Shastri opines on WTC Final format

The families of players and support staff of Indian men’s and women’s cricket teams have been allowed to accompany them during their gruelling tour of England. <o:p></o:p>

According to PTI, the BCCI had requested to allow the families of players and staff given that the team will be spending a long time inside the bio-secure bubble during their tour to the UK.<o:p></o:p>

However, none of the BCCI office-bearers, including board president Sourav Ganguly and secretary Jay Shah will be present for the ICC World Test Championship final against New Zealand in Southampton from June 18-22 due to strict quarantine rules in the country. <o:p></o:p>

"Yes, it's good news that players will have their families during the tour of the UK. Ditto for the women's team who can also have their families around. These are times when the mental well-being of players is paramount.<o:p></o:p>

"The BCCI understands that we need our players and support staff to be in a good headspace," a source told PTI.

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Ganguly and Shah weren’t granted exemption from the strict quarantine rules in the UK and they would have to undergo isolation of 10 days. Hence, they will be absent from the ICC WTC final. <o:p></o:p>

"As far as I know, the ECB didn't grant permission to them (Ganguly and Shah). Normally, administrators go before the Test match but as per quarantine rules, since they are not playing members, they would have had to undergo hard quarantine of 10 days.<o:p></o:p>

"The team rules wouldn't have been applicable as far as president and secretary is concerned," the official further added.<o:p></o:p>

The Indian men’s and women’s teams will depart for Southampton after touching down in London.

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According to PTI, India women will commence their one-off Test against England in Bristol from June 16 and will have to undergo hard quarantine in Southampton with the men’s team at Hotel Hilton. They will travel to Bristol on completion of their hard quarantine in Southampton.<o:p></o:p>

Indian teams will have to serve three days of hard quarantine and after that they can use the gym and start working on their skills. They have been serving a 14-day quarantine period in India and undergone six RT-PCR tests.<o:p></o:p>

The families of players and support staff of Indian men’s and women’s cricket teams have been allowed to accompany them during their gruelling tour of England. According to PTI, the BCCI had requested to allow the families of players and staff given that the team will be spending a long time inside the bio-secure bubble during their tour to the UK.

The families of players and support staff of Indian men’s and women’s cricket teams have been allowed to accompany them during their gruelling tour of England. According to PTI, the BCCI had requested to allow the families of players and staff given that the team will be spending a long time inside the bio-secure bubble during their tour to the UK. However, none of the BCCI office-bearers, including board president Sourav Ganguly and secretary Jay Shah will be present for the ICC World Test Championship final against New Zealand in Southampton from June 18-22 due to strict quarantine rules in the country. "Yes, it's good news that players will have their families during the tour of the UK. Ditto for the women's team who can also have their families around. These are times when the mental well-being of players is paramount. "The BCCI understands that we need our players and support staff to be in a good headspace," a source told PTI. ALSO READ: Cricket: Mumbai Indian's Trent Boult 'looking forward' to participate in IPL 2021 in UAE Ganguly and Shah weren’t granted exemption from the strict quarantine rules in the UK and they would have to undergo isolation of 10 days. Hence, they will be absent from the ICC WTC final. "As far as I know, the ECB didn't grant permission to them (Ganguly and Shah). Normally, administrators go before the Test match but as per quarantine rules, since they are not playing members, they would have had to undergo hard quarantine of 10 days. "The team rules wouldn't have been applicable as far as president and secretary is concerned," the official further added. The Indian men’s and women’s teams will depart for Southampton after touching down in London. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli isn't the highest-paid captain in international cricket! - Check full list of skippers and salaries in 2021 According to PTI, India women will commence their one-off Test against England in Bristol from June 16 and will have to undergo hard quarantine in Southampton with the men’s team at Hotel Hilton. They will travel to Bristol on completion of their hard quarantine in Southampton. Indian teams will have to serve three days of hard quarantine and after that they can use the gym and start working on their skills. They have been serving a 14-day quarantine period in India and undergone six RT-PCR tests.

Cricket: Players' families allowed for UK tour, BCCI office-bearers to skip WTC final due to quarantine rules

Veteran pacer Tim Southee has been one of the mainstays of New Zealand cricket team&nbsp;and has helped the Kane Williamson-led outfit&nbsp;to qualify for the ICC&nbsp;World Test Championship finale against India in Southampton, to played from June 18.

At the point when Williamson's men go into the Lord's dressing room this week there will positively be no gestures towards the honors board, where Tim Southee's name sits close by figures of six for 50 – and 10 in the match – during the Test in 2013.&nbsp;

In an interview with The Guardian, Southee said:&nbsp; “I’ll just wait and see if some of the younger guys spot it. Lord’s is a pretty special place to play cricket. Walk-in and you can’t help seeing what people have achieved there over the years. But, yeah, it’s not really the Kiwi way to point these things out.”

Southee also commended Kyle Jamieson for declining an invitation to bowl at his Royal Challengers Bangalore captain Virat Kohli with the&nbsp;Dukes ball during IPL 2021, to help the Indian captain get a hang of the tall Kiwi all-rounder.

The RCB captain, arguably the most astute cricketer around, supposedly attempted to get knowledge into Kyle Jamieson's skills ahead of the ICC World Test Championship last. Be that as it may, the 26-year-old Black Caps cricketer denied the invitation.&nbsp;

Tim Southee has now said it was an easy decision for&nbsp;Jamieson to decline Kohli's solicitation.

“I’m pretty sure that story is true. But that would be the answer to most batsmen – why would you give them a look? It was smart from Virat to see if he’d fall into the trap but for Kyle, it was a no-brainer to not give the guy a glimpse of what he’ll be facing in the final".

Regardless of playing only six Tests, Jamieson has looked mature red-ball cricket. While he has gotten a day and a half at an average of 13.27. He has additionally scored 226 runs at an average of 56.50.

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Southee trusts Jamieson's expansion has helped New Zealand's bowling department, which as of now brags the preferences Trent Boult, Trent Boult, Neil Wagner, Matt Henry, and Southee himself.&nbsp;

“But yes, a guy who bowls from 6ft 8in will only enhance any attack like ours. He’s a great kid and driven to improve. He swings the ball and always asks questions, bowling a full length. He’s invaluable with the bat too – a massive asset for the side,"&nbsp;he added.

A portion of the solidness work here has helped through to Tim Southee's cricket, with significant wounds luckily scant. A smooth, repeatable activity has had its impact as well and he refers to Jimmy Anderson – set to turn 39 this late spring and going to play his 161st Test for England – as a motivation to take his own vocation profound.

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"Jimmy shows age is only a number. For me it's as yet a fantasy to play for New Zealand, to address your loved ones. I need to go however long I can" - he signed off. 
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Veteran pacer Tim Southee has been one of the mainstays of New Zealand cricket team and has helped the Kane Williamson-led outfit to qualify for the ICC World Test Championship finale against India in Southampton, to played from June 18.

Veteran pacer Tim Southee has been one of the mainstays of New Zealand cricket team and has helped the Kane Williamson-led outfit to qualify for the ICC World Test Championship finale against India in Southampton, to played from June 18. At the point when Williamson's men go into the Lord's dressing room this week there will positively be no gestures towards the honors board, where Tim Southee's name sits close by figures of six for 50 – and 10 in the match – during the Test in 2013. In an interview with The Guardian, Southee said: “I’ll just wait and see if some of the younger guys spot it. Lord’s is a pretty special place to play cricket. Walk-in and you can’t help seeing what people have achieved there over the years. But, yeah, it’s not really the Kiwi way to point these things out.” Southee also commended Kyle Jamieson for declining an invitation to bowl at his Royal Challengers Bangalore captain Virat Kohli with the Dukes ball during IPL 2021, to help the Indian captain get a hang of the tall Kiwi all-rounder. The RCB captain, arguably the most astute cricketer around, supposedly attempted to get knowledge into Kyle Jamieson's skills ahead of the ICC World Test Championship last. Be that as it may, the 26-year-old Black Caps cricketer denied the invitation. Tim Southee has now said it was an easy decision for Jamieson to decline Kohli's solicitation. “I’m pretty sure that story is true. But that would be the answer to most batsmen – why would you give them a look? It was smart from Virat to see if he’d fall into the trap but for Kyle, it was a no-brainer to not give the guy a glimpse of what he’ll be facing in the final". Regardless of playing only six Tests, Jamieson has looked mature red-ball cricket. While he has gotten a day and a half at an average of 13.27. He has additionally scored 226 runs at an average of 56.50. ALSO READ: Cricket: Aakash Chopra names 'X-factor' for Team India in the tour of England Southee trusts Jamieson's expansion has helped New Zealand's bowling department, which as of now brags the preferences Trent Boult, Trent Boult, Neil Wagner, Matt Henry, and Southee himself. “But yes, a guy who bowls from 6ft 8in will only enhance any attack like ours. He’s a great kid and driven to improve. He swings the ball and always asks questions, bowling a full length. He’s invaluable with the bat too – a massive asset for the side," he added. A portion of the solidness work here has helped through to Tim Southee's cricket, with significant wounds luckily scant. A smooth, repeatable activity has had its impact as well and he refers to Jimmy Anderson – set to turn 39 this late spring and going to play his 161st Test for England – as a motivation to take his own vocation profound. ALSO READ: Cricket: India's pacers force opponents to think what wickets they want to offer, says Mohammed Shami ahead of England tour "Jimmy shows age is only a number. For me it's as yet a fantasy to play for New Zealand, to address your loved ones. I need to go however long I can" - he signed off.

Cricket: Tim Southee lauds Kyle Jamieson for declining Virat Kohli's invitation to bowl with Dukes ball in nets

Sunil Gavaskar trusts England will dole out green seaming wickets for the forthcoming five-match Test arrangement against India beginning in August.

In the wake of 'moaning' about the wickets in India prior, Sunil Gavaskar said it wouldn't come as an astonishment on the off chance that we saw some grass on the wickets in England.&nbsp;

Notwithstanding, he accepts that shouldn't be a reason for stress as Team India has the bowling capability to endeavor such conditions. Gavaskar wrote in his column in The Telegraph: "Having moaned about the pitches in India earlier this year, it won't be a surprise if the groundsman in England leaves a little grass on the surface. That is no longer a worry as India have an attack that will also thrive on it and cause problems for the England batsmen too".

Sunil Gavaskar added that the forthcoming summer of cricket would be a brilliant one for Indian cricket.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-still-one-of-top-bowlers-in-world-wasim-akram-on-mohammad-amir-388252" hreflang="en">Cricket- 'Still one of top bowlers in world': Wasim Akram on Mohammad Amir</a>

"The summer in England promises to be the golden summer of Indian cricket. After the WTC finals, there is a gap of about six weeks before the Test series starts against England and that should be enough for the team to play some practice games and tune-up for what England can hurl at them. It is foolish to try and predict the score but it looks like it will be an Indian summer in England" - he said.

While Gavaskar said India ought to be prepared for green tops, Joe Root, in a press interview after the series loss to India earlier&nbsp;this year, stated they would get really 'good wickets' when India visits England.&nbsp;

"We are going to prepare really good wickets when India tours England. If we want to develop as a team and compete everywhere we go in the world, we will have to get used to scoring big runs consistently. We have to get used to bowling on good surfaces and finding ways to take 20 wickets. I think that's how you build a good team," Root said after the 3-1 series loss to India.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-people-love-rehashing-an-old-scandal-says-david-gowler-if-steve-smith-handed-captaincy-388225" hreflang="en">Cricket: 'People love rehashing an old scandal', says David Gowler if Steve Smith handed captaincy</a>

Before the five-match Test series against England, which begins on August 4, India will have more pressing issues to attend to as they take on New Zealand in the World Test Championship finale on June 18. 
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Sunil Gavaskar trusts England will dole out green seaming wickets for the forthcoming five-match Test arrangement against India beginning in August. In the wake of 'moaning' about the wickets in India prior, Sunil Gavaskar said it wouldn't come as an astonishment on the off chance that we saw some grass on the wickets in England.

Sunil Gavaskar trusts England will dole out green seaming wickets for the forthcoming five-match Test arrangement against India beginning in August. In the wake of 'moaning' about the wickets in India prior, Sunil Gavaskar said it wouldn't come as an astonishment on the off chance that we saw some grass on the wickets in England. Notwithstanding, he accepts that shouldn't be a reason for stress as Team India has the bowling capability to endeavor such conditions. Gavaskar wrote in his column in The Telegraph: "Having moaned about the pitches in India earlier this year, it won't be a surprise if the groundsman in England leaves a little grass on the surface. That is no longer a worry as India have an attack that will also thrive on it and cause problems for the England batsmen too". Sunil Gavaskar added that the forthcoming summer of cricket would be a brilliant one for Indian cricket. ALSO READ: Cricket- 'Still one of top bowlers in world': Wasim Akram on Mohammad Amir "The summer in England promises to be the golden summer of Indian cricket. After the WTC finals, there is a gap of about six weeks before the Test series starts against England and that should be enough for the team to play some practice games and tune-up for what England can hurl at them. It is foolish to try and predict the score but it looks like it will be an Indian summer in England" - he said. While Gavaskar said India ought to be prepared for green tops, Joe Root, in a press interview after the series loss to India earlier this year, stated they would get really 'good wickets' when India visits England. "We are going to prepare really good wickets when India tours England. If we want to develop as a team and compete everywhere we go in the world, we will have to get used to scoring big runs consistently. We have to get used to bowling on good surfaces and finding ways to take 20 wickets. I think that's how you build a good team," Root said after the 3-1 series loss to India. ALSO READ: Cricket: 'People love rehashing an old scandal', says David Gowler if Steve Smith handed captaincy Before the five-match Test series against England, which begins on August 4, India will have more pressing issues to attend to as they take on New Zealand in the World Test Championship finale on June 18.

'England tour promises to be golden summer of Indian cricket,' reckons Sunil Gavaskar