Australia pacer Josh Hazlewood feels that India might awaken by the shocking defeat in the test series against New Zealand and believes that India can mount a strong comeback in the Border Gavaskar Trophy starting this month.
India suffered a humiliating series whitewash after losing the final match of the third match by 25 runs to New Zealand in Mumbai on Sunday, the first time in their test history which goes back to 1933.
“It might awaken a sleeping giant, so to speak. We’ll see that when they come out,” said Hazlewood.
The test defeat at home has made a significant impact on Rohit Sharma’s side’s chances for qualifying in next year’s WTC finals. After consecutive losses, India lose their top spot to Australia in the WTC points tables.
India has to go on a tough task of winning four of their five matches against Australia to qualify for their third consecutive WTC final without relying on other match results.
“It’s better for them to lose 3-0 than win 3-0, easily. The confidence might have taken a bit of a hit. A lot of them have been out here, but there are a few batters who haven’t, so they’ll be a bit unsure of what to expect,” Hazlewood said.
“I don’t think you can read too much into it. The results are obviously good for us in a way,” said Hazlewood.
“Credit to the Kiwi boys. They played outstanding cricket. To win 3-0 in India is unbelievable. It’s hard enough to win one game there, let alone every match of the series,” Hazlewood said.
Everything’s falling into place. It’s just a huge series. Every time we play India, it’s right up there with the Ashes,” he added.
“I think the crowds will be massive. I think the TV ratings could be huge. (There is talk) it could be the biggest ever.” said the Australian pacer.
“I pretty much got out what I needed … very happy with how I bowled. Body felt surprisingly good. The longer I went, I think the better that I felt, and the rhythm was there,” he added.
The five-match test series will kickstart on November 22 while the second test will be played on a day-night format under the stadium lights starting on December 06.
The third test will be played in the Gabba which will be held between December 14-18. The fourth test will be played between December 26-30 at Melbourne Cricket Ground.
The fifth and final test at the Sydney Cricket Ground from January 3-7 will give a promising dramatic conclusion for the exciting contest.
