'They are formidable at home and we will start as the underdogs' - NZ batter Ross Taylor ahead of Test series against India

New Zealand will take on India in a two-Test rubber that will commence on 25th November 2021. And, ahead of this challenging series for the Black Caps, veteran Kiwi batter Ross Taylor has opened up on the series against the Indian side.

Taylor stated that New Zealand are now the world champions, and they will have to try and retain the crown. Taylor also admitted that India is a difficult place for New Zealand to start their World Test Championship (WTC) title defense.

“We can say we’re world champions now and that’s suddenly different, trying to retain it. It’s sort of a harder place to start. We started in Sri Lanka last time and we drew that series. It’s going to be a great two years I’m sure,” said Ross Taylor as quoted by ESPNCricinfo.

New Zealand’s element of surprise is gone: Ross Taylor

Ross Taylor also added that the New Zealand side has been the underdogs for so many years, but feels that after winning the WTC, the element of surprise in the Kiwi side is gone. Taylor however, admitted that when any side plays India at home, they will start as the underdogs.

Taylor also feels that India are a formidable side in their own den and concluded by stating that the way the Black Caps adapt to the conditions on offer in India will hold the key for the visitors.

“We’ve gone so many years as underdogs. But now coming in as champions: I guess the element of surprise is gone. But any time you play India at home you’re going to be the underdogs, whether you’re No. 1 in the world or where they sit in international cricket at the time.

They are resting a couple of players but they’re still a formidable side and know these conditions really well. The way we adapt to these conditions is going to be the key going forward,” concluded Ross Taylor.