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Journalism of Courage
New Zealand skipper Stephen Fleming today said the tourists have come fully prepared to meet the tough challenges of the star-studded Indian side but executing the plans in subcontinental conditions would be the real challenge. ‘‘We have a lot of plans. A lot of things in mind for a number of players. But the most important part in India is executing those plans,’’ Fleming told newpersons here.
Describing the Indian tour as tougher than those in West Indies and Sri Lanka, where his team did well, Fleming said, ‘‘India have three of four top batsmen in the world. They also have a very good spin attack. That’s where the challenge lies.’’
Stressing that wickets would play a crucial role in the coming battles, Fleming said, ‘‘Generally spin bowlers get assistance from Indian tracks while the pacers have to do it the hard way.
“I’m not saying that we’re not talented, but we have to play extremely well to put it across India in the coming series. Also, spots are up for grabs in the side.’’
Reiterating that his side has prepared well for the tour, Fleming said that his men were keen to get themselves attuned to the conditions from the two warm-up matches, against the Board President’s XI and India ‘A’.
Asked how the Kiwis planned to use their two spinners Daniel Vettori and Paul Wiseman on Indian wickets which generally assist spinners, Fleming said, ‘‘Daniel is the more experienced bowler, while Paul has developed his skills and is also now turning the ball well. They have got different roles to play and we will make full use of their skills.’’
Fleming referred to the duo’s fine performance in the Sri Lanka tour earlier this year, saying, ‘‘Like our batsmen who played well, the spinners also did a good job. Thanks to their efforts we stopped Sri Lanka’s fine run of nine back-to-back wins on home soil.’’
The Kiwi skipper said that the pre-tour visit of coach Ashley Ross and his video analysis of the Indian players during the Irani Trophy final in Chennai also helped his side’s build-up for the series. ‘‘At least it helped us know what we will be in for in India,’’ he added.
Fleming also said that his men were in fine spirits and enjoying their stay in the coastal city. New Zealand are slated to play two Tests in Ahmedabad and Mohali next month before the tri-series. (PTI)
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Fans deserve teams that fight: Wright
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| Press trust of India Bangalore, September 24 Coach John Wright has asked members of the Indian cricket team to put the country above self-interest as the side prepares to start a packed new season, commencing with a Test series against New Zealand at home. ‘‘Fans and people of India deserve a team that fights. Winning and losing is part of the game. It’s how you win and how you lose. Team must always play as a team and fight”. Wright said at a function here last night. Story continues below this ad India are set to play two Tests at home against New Zealand, followed by a tri-nation series also involving world champions Australia as the third team. |
