New Zealand head coach Rob Walter has expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance despite trailing 0-2 in the five-match T20I series against India.
Despite back-to-back close defeats, Walter believes the team has shown immense resilience, strong execution, and plenty of positives to build on for the rest of the series.
Key Reasons Behind the Coach’s Optimism
-
Winning 80% of Each Match: Coach Walter highlighted that the Blackcaps played exceptionally well for about 80% of both matches. He noted that both games were extremely competitive and could have easily swung in New Zealand’s favor had they capitalized on a few crucial moments.
-
Sensational Batting Recovery: In the second T20I, New Zealand suffered an early powerplay collapse, losing three quick wickets for just 41 runs. Despite the pressure, lower-order batters Bevan and Glenn counter-attacked brilliantly to lead the team to a highly competitive total of 180. Walter praised this fighting spirit, noting that recovering from such a position to post 180 is a huge positive.
-
Limited Match Practice: Before heading into this series, the team had limited competitive game time together. Considering the lack of recent match practice, Walter feels the team’s ability to push India to the brink in both matches demonstrates solid tactical execution and fitness.
-
Praise for Mitchell Santner’s Leadership: The coach lauded captain Mitchell Santner’s calm leadership and stellar bowling performance (including a four-wicket haul in the second match).
“A Bit of Disappointment, but Very Happy Overall”
Reflecting on the twin defeats, Rob Walter stated:
“Both games we could easily have been on the winning side of it, but weren’t. We probably missed out on a couple of opportunities each time where you probably would have sealed the game off for us. It’s a bit of disappointment, but I am also very happy with how we’ve played.”
The Road Ahead
While execution errors in the death overs and fielding lapses ultimately cost New Zealand, the coaching staff remains confident. With three matches left in the 5-game series, Walter firmly believes that minor tweaks in pressure situations can help his side turn the tables against India.