‘They have gone down…’ – Aakash Chopra warns New Zealand ahead of second ODI vs India

India faced off against New Zealand in the first ODI on January 18, Wednesday and won the game eventually on the back of a stupendous double ton from Shubman Gill, although Michael Bracewell caused a scare with his quickfire 140 while chasing a target of 350. However, the Kiwis succumbed to 337 and it was a thrilling contest, with the Black Caps facing criticism from all ends of the world for their continued mediocre run. 

However, prior to the start of the ODI series against the Men in Blue, they rattled the Babar Azam-led Pakistan team in their own backyard, winning the series 1-2 post losing the first contest. As things stand, Aakash Chopra, the former Indian cricketer, expressed displeasure over the current Kiwi setup and claimed that they are no more the same team that they were earlier. 

Highlighting the poor run in the format, Chopra said that it is high time that they reflect upon themselves and bounce back in the remaining contests. Further, Chopra said that the absence of Tim Southee and Kane Williamson is hurting them a lot and to add more, Williamson was rested for the series against the Men in Blue. 

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Their bowling is still good if they come with full strength: Aakash Chopra

However, Chopra did not shy away from admitting that the Black Caps have a pretty strong bowling line-up, only if they come up with it at full strength. Further, the commentator said that he expects runs from opener Devon Conway and claimed that his contribution would be vital for the team in the coming games. 

 “New Zealand have gone down in the last 12 months. You can see Tests or any other formats, they are not looking the same team they were earlier. Not a great sign. Their bowling is still good if they come with full strength. They have players in batting as well but it is not the full team,” Chopra was quoted as saying. 

“The New Zealand team is slightly weak because they don’t have Tim Southee and Kane Williamson has also not come. No one is giving that much importance to bilateral series, which is slightly sad. Everyone is managing workload and Trent Boult is playing ILT20,” said the commentator further. 

“I expect runs from Devon Conway in today’s game because he is a gun player. If it is a good pitch to bat, he is someone who can bat right till the end. Finn Allen scores quickly, that is his style of playing,” he added.