New Delhi: Former Australian cricketer Matthew Hayden believes India’s recent 3-0 Test series defeat to New Zealand, though disappointing, can benefit them ahead of the upcoming matches. Border-Gavaskar Trophy,
Speaking to the Sydney Morning Herald, Hayden described the whitewash as “the start that India needs.” He said, “Even though India lost and was weak in terms of performance while playing the longer format Cricket “They get the benefit of preparation.”
India’s defeat to New Zealand is a historic collapse. The Black Caps completed a clean sweep of the third Test with a 25-run win at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.
See also: Border-Gavaskar Trophy
This was India’s first home Test series whitewash in over two decades and their first whitewash in a Test series of three or more matches.
The result has sparked significant introspection in the Indian camp as they prepare for the key series against Australia.
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The Border-Gavaskar Trophy begins in Perth from November 22, with both teams aiming to dominate.
Hayden suggested that India’s recent performance in red-ball cricket could help them adapt to the demands of the Test format, unlike Australia, which has not played longer format games recently.
He commented that India’s struggles could serve as a warning, inspiring them to make a stronger comeback against a strong Australian side.
The series promises to be a packed itinerary, starting with the opening Test in Perth. The second Test, from December 6-10, will be a day-night contest under floodlights at the Adelaide Oval.
The competition then shifts to Brisbane’s Gabba (December 14-18) before the prestigious Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (December 26-30). The series finale at the Sydney Cricket Ground from January 3-7 could be decisive.
