New Zealand’s unexpected but historic sweep of India at home invited plenty of takes on the issue from all over the world with several former internationals chiming in with their views.
The 3-0 sweep by the Kiwis was the first time in their history that a team beat India at home by that score line. Their previous worst record was a 2-0 loss to South Africa.
India’s loss to New Zealand not only raises questions about their dominance at home but puts their prospects of playing another World Test Championship Final in serious jeopardy.
Despite still being at the top, Rohit Sharma’s team has a tough tour of Australia coming up with the Aussies, the Kiwis and the Proteas all gunning for their spot.
Here is how the world reacted to India’s loss on X:
Sachin Tendulkar:
“Losing 3-0 at home is a tough pill to swallow, and it calls for introspection. Was it a lack of preparation, poor shot selection, or a lack of match practice? Full credit to New Zealand for their consistent performance throughout the series. Winning 3-0 in India is as good a result as it can get.”
Former England Captain Michael Vaughan:
“To win in India is incredible, but to deliver a clean sweep is remarkable. This has to be the greatest-ever Test series victory. India now has a group of batters who, like most teams, struggle against spin.”
Former India Seamer Irfan Pathan:
“This is an embarrassing display by Team India at home. There is a lot for the decision-makers to ponder over. Well done, New Zealand, on such a terrific performance.”
Ex-India Spinner Harbhajan Singh:
“Turning pitches have become our own enemy. Congratulations to New Zealand; you outplayed us. I’ve been saying for years that Team India needs to play on better pitches. These turning pitches are making every batsman look ordinary.”
Former India Batsman Yuvraj Singh:
“Cricket truly is a humbling sport, isn’t it? Just months after our T20 World Cup win, we face a historic whitewash. That’s the beauty of this game! Bigger tests lie ahead with the Australia series, and the way forward is to introspect, learn, and look up! Congratulations to the @BLACKCAPS on a well-rounded performance and a historic win.”
Ex-West Indies Fast Bowler Ian Bishop:
“Amazing from New Zealand. A population of less than six million. No Kane Williamson. They have conquered an unenviable task, and both their men’s and women’s teams have enjoyed an historic and proud few weeks.”
With their 12-year win streak finally broken, more teams will be confident of upsetting India on their turf when it is their turn.