Mitchell Santner Highlights New Zealand's Advantage Ahead of T20I Series Against India
Recent Success Gives Kiwis an Edge
Mitchell Santner, the captain of New Zealand's T20I team, expressed that their recent victories against India in various formats provide them with a competitive advantage as they prepare for the upcoming five-match T20I series, commencing on Wednesday in Nagpur.
The Kiwis enter this T20I series following a commendable 2-1 series victory over India, led by Shubman Gill, in a three-match ODI series. Under the leadership of Michael Bracewell, New Zealand showcased remarkable resilience to clinch the series against a formidable Indian side that featured ODI stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Despite the absence of key players like Kane Williamson, Tom Latham, and Matt Henry, New Zealand achieved their first ODI series win on Indian soil. Additionally, they celebrated a historic 3-0 Test series clean sweep over India in 2024.
Fond Memories of Playing in India
During a pre-match press conference in Nagpur, Santner shared his enthusiasm for competing against India in their home conditions, noting that their recent successes bolster their confidence. He emphasized the importance of this series not only for winning but also for preparing for the T20 World Cup 2026 by facing a strong opponent in similar conditions. "It certainly gives us an edge. We enjoy playing India and in India. Our recent successes across formats have been encouraging. Our primary goal is to win the series while also ensuring we are well-prepared for the T20 World Cup 2026. Competing against a great team in conditions similar to those we will encounter in the World Cup is crucial," Santner remarked.
Santner reminisced about his standout performance in the 2016 T20 World Cup group stage match against India, where he played a pivotal role in New Zealand's 47-run victory. He fondly recalled that match as a significant memory from his inaugural tour of India, praising the enthusiastic crowds and the support from fans. "I hope the atmosphere is as vibrant as it was a decade ago. It was an unforgettable experience playing in front of 50,000 fans during the World Cup. Every visit to India has been fantastic, and the fans are incredible. Playing in front of such large crowds is what we live for," he stated.
'We Know What to Expect': Santner on Adapting to Conditions
New Zealand has a history of challenging India in both ICC tournaments and bilateral series. Santner attributed their success against India to the experience gained from frequent tours, which helps them quickly adapt to Indian conditions and pitches. He acknowledged that while their recent ODI results were favorable, the T20 series presents a new challenge against a different Indian lineup. "It's a mix of factors. Each time we visit India, we gain valuable experience against a strong team across formats. The conditions differ from what we are accustomed to back home. However, most players who have toured here before understand what to expect. Teams that can quickly adapt to the conditions usually perform well. Our repeated visits to India have been beneficial, and while we've had recent successes, the T20 series is a fresh start against a different team," Santner concluded.