WTC Final: Sunil Gavaskar picks his winner between India and New Zealand

The much-awaited ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final is just three days away with India and New Zealand warming up for the summit clash. With the high-octane final lined-up, the predictions and analysis of where both the teams are standing will naturally get a lot of attention from the experts and critics alike.

While all the previous experts like Venkatesh Prasad, Irfan Pathan, Scott Styris, Monty Panesar, and Parthiv Patel have managed to pick one team between the two, legendary Indian cricketer Sunil Gavaskar has bucked the trend.

The former India opening batter feels both the teams have a good chance of winning the contest as they are equally well-stocked with the batting and bowling depth. Some think the Blackcaps might have an extra edge due to their recent two Tests against England. Gavaskar was too asked to speak on the hot topic of discussion, to which the 71-year-old felt the Indian team will be more eager to win the summit clash.

“It’s even-stevens in my view because both the teams are well balanced. There are some who think New Zealand has the advantage of being match-ready (after their 1-0 series win in England). But then India will be match-hungry and fresh and eager to get on the ground after a month of inaction. India have more impact players with both bat and ball and they should win this game,” Gavaskar told Times of India.

Sunil Gavaskar feels few of the senior NZ players might carry niggle ahead of the WTC Final

The former India opening batter also explained why some experts feel the Kiwis have momentum with them, considering their recent performances against England. But Gavaskar felt it otherwise and told that some of New Zealand players might be worn out or carry a niggle ahead of the WTC Final.

“This could be a double-edged sword. With only three days between the second Test (against England) and the WTC Final, some of their older players could have a niggle or two and that can hamper their performance,” he said.

The two teams will lock horns on June 18 in the inaugural WTC Final at The Ageas Bowl in Southampton.