NEW DELHI: Australian bowler Josh Hazlewood believes that India’s recent loss to New Zealand could make them a stronger opponent in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy. India lost all three Test matches against New Zealand, marking their first series whitewash in Test history. Despite this, Hazlewood believes the loss could fuel India’s performance.
“It might awaken a sleeping giant, so to speak. We’ll see that when they come out,” Hazlewood told ‘Sydney Morning Herald’.
The series loss also impacts India’s chances of qualifying for the World Test Championship final. They now need to win at least four out of their five matches against Australia. “It’s obviously better them losing 3-0 than winning 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.”
Hazlewood acknowledged New Zealand’s achievement, stating: “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.”
The Border-Gavaskar Trophy, a five-match Test series, will start on November 22 in Perth. Hazlewood expressed his excitement, calling it a “huge series” on par with the Ashes.
Hazlewood is part of Australia’s main bowling attack alongside Mitchell Starc and captain Pat Cummins. He recently played in a domestic match for Queensland and is expected to be fully fit for the series against India.
Australia are set to host India for a five-match Test series, starting November 22 in Perth.
“Everything’s falling into place. It’s just a huge series. Every time we play India, it’s right up there with the Ashes,” Hazlewood said.
“I think the crowds will be massive. I think the TV ratings could be huge. (There is talk) it could be the biggest ever.”
Hazlewood, who turned up for Queensland in their Sheffield Shield match against New South Wales, missed the opening ODI against Pakistan on Monday but said he would play the second match on Friday in Adelaide.
“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.