WTC Final: Don’t think England Tests will give us huge advantage vs India – NZ coach Gary Stead

New Zealand head coach Gary Stead believes the England Tests will not give them a huge advantage in the World Test Championship final against India. The Kiwis had dominated the first Test match against the hosts at Lord’s but didn’t have the rub of the green on their side as the third day of the game was washed out due to rain.

Subsequently, New Zealand won the second Test match against England by eight wickets as they once again dominated the hosts despite making six changes to their playing XI. The Kane Williamson-led team will be better prepared for the big match as they have the match practice under their belt which the Indian team lacks.

On the other hand, Indian team will need to hit the ground running as they haven’t had a lot of time to prepare for the big match. However, Stead added that as it was a shortened IPL, the Indian players will be fresh and it will give them an advantage.

“I am not sure if it is an advantage or disadvantage really, it is nice that we have managed to get over her and play some cricket,” Stead said during a virtual press conference when asked if it was an advantage for New Zealand.

“I guess the advantage for India is that IPL being shortened, or people would still be playing from the Indian team. So it is a little bit of a different situation for us.”

“No doubt, as a coach, I am pleased that we had some time here and had a couple of test cricket matches. I think it is good for us in getting ready for this Test match.”

“For us, it was an interesting road getting here and we played interesting cricket for the last couple of years to get here. But we are aware of the strength of this Indian side and they are worthy finalists and really looking forward to the battle next week.”

It is going to be an interesting battle between the top two Test teams as both of them have potent pace batteries. The WTC final will be played at Ageas Bowl, Southampton from June 18.