Hoping for a bright start to the New Year
Stephen Fleming - 31 December 2002
We could not have asked for a better gift in the festive season than a
2-0 lead in the one-day series. Both wins have been very satisfying,
but the one at Napier was more rewarding because the conditions made
it a more competitive game. I was happy the way the Black Caps
performed in the field in both games, putting genuine pressure on the
Indian batsmen right through the innings.
In the first game the pitch did play a part in the proceedings, and we
were lucky to scramble home in the end. Hopefully, that was the last
"minefield" we will see this summer. However, it must also be admitted
that batsmen from both sides did play some poor shots on that wicket
to contribute to their downfall.
Coming back to Napier, the Indians will be seeking consolation from
the fact that Virender Sehwag is back among the runs. However, I feel
his true test will be when he faces Shane Bond in Christchurch on New
Year's Day. Even in Napier, he did play and miss a couple of times
before coming into his own. So far Bond has had the better of his
exchanges with Sehwag, and it will be great to see that confrontation
resume on Wednesday.
As captain I felt that one of the heartening aspects of the Napier
game was that the Kiwi bowlers were able to maintain pressure in the
absence of Bond, who has been the strike bowler so far. In fact, they
were particularly effective in mopping up the tail.
The New Zealand batting too has been a little brittle so far. I think
the pitches at Wellington, Hamilton and Auckland have put too many
doubts in the minds of batsmen in both sides. Improved conditions at
McLean Park saw us cross 250 and the Indians cross 200, and as I had
said in an earlier article, conditions will only get better from here
on. We may not see 300-plus totals, but quality batting will certainly
be on view from both sides.
I expect the Indians to put up a better showing in the next set of
games because Sachin Tendulkar will be back. It's not as if the
batting looks brittle without him, it's just that it looks a whole lot
more formidable with him. His presence has a very positive effect on
the Indians, and what better place for him to make his comeback than
on the batsman-friendly pitch at Jade Stadium in Christchurch.
Besides the return of Bond, there will be no change in the New Zealand
side for the third game. In spite of the poor games I've had so far, I
plan to continue opening since it gives the team more balance.
Moreover, two bad games are not enough to make a change. I played a
domestic game on Monday in order to get some practice and I'm sure I
will be able to contribute better in the next game.
We will be assembling at Christchurch tomorrow before proceeding to
Nathan Astle's place for a quiet New Year's Eve party. We can't be too
boisterous while welcoming the new year since we have a game the very
next day! I would like to sign off by wishing readers in India a very
happy new year.
Other Articles by Stephen Fleming:
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