IND-NZ Test will be battle between two modern-day greats, believes Mike Hesson

The Indian side hasn’t put a foot wrong in Test cricket since the back-to-back away series defeats in South Africa and England as they have decimated every side that has happened to cross their path ever since. After a superb run in the home season, India look to take on New Zealand in their den early next year. Former New Zealand coach Mark Hesson opined that beating New Zealand at home will be a tough ask for the No.1 Test side in the World given their recent exploits in their backyard.

“New Zealand are very hard to beat at home and have been for a number of years now. Both sides are on top of their game in Test cricket at the moment. So I see it (the Test series) as a high-quality contest,” Hesson told TOI on Sunday.

The former coach shared that he is looking forward to a gruesome battle between the captains, Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson as the best in the business cross paths while their team seem to be enjoying their best run of form. Hesson also credited the strategic expertise of the leaders for their success as captains across formats on the international stage.

“Yes, I do feel it will be a battle between two greats of the modern game. It’s a great pleasure watching both of them bat. Having said that, both sides are so full of talent and don’t need to rely solely on the captains to dictate the outcome of the Test series. Both are well aware of what is needed of them and the way they prepare for any game is top-class. Both Kohli and Williamson are able to execute their plans irrespective of the situation of the game and that’s the best part,” said Hesson.

Hesson, who is currently serving as the director of cricket operations for RCB, pointed out that the Indian team has been excellent in all facets of the game. The 45-year-old heaped praise on the pace battery of India as he acknowledged that the potent pace attack makes it easier for India to succeed in any conditions.

“I think it is the most balanced Indian side I have seen, and that reflects in the ability to win in all conditions around the world. I see no major areas of weakness but strength and depth across the board. India has a splendid group of pacers in Jasprit Bumrah, Mohd Shami, Ishant Sharma, Umesh Yadav and Bhuvi. Their presence is definitely a major reason why India can compete in any conditions now,” Hesson concluded.