Former Indian fast bowler Venkatesh Prasad asserts that India's strength in batting, bowling, and fitness will be key to overcoming New Zealand in the World Test Championship final starting June 18 in Southampton.
In an interview with PTI, Prasad mentioned that India's depth in the bowling department allows them to bring in additional seamers to keep the intensity high after the initial new-ball burst.
Prasad is convinced that the batting lineup is capable of hitting a 350-run mark under any weather or pitch conditions. He pointed out that India's current advantage over New Zealand lies in their abundance of seaming options—a luxury the team lacked during the 1990s and early 2000s.
With a combination of elite spinners, a top-tier pace attack, and strong all-rounders, Prasad expects India to control the match. His ideal bowling attack would consist of Ashwin and Jadeja, supported by the pace of Ishant Sharma, Mohammad Shami, and Jasprit Bumrah.
Prasad questioned why Ishant Sharma isn't viewed more highly given his 100-Test milestone and his familiarity with English conditions through county cricket. He also noted that while New Zealand has the advantage of recent game time, India has ample opportunity to prepare thoroughly.
He emphasized that the batsmen must adapt rapidly to the surface, while bowlers need to be strategic about which end they operate from. He reminded everyone that in most sports, you only get one shot at the final.