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Without India, the face of world cricket would be very different: Hadlee
Sir Richard Hadlee, one of cricket's classical allrounders, is looking forward to the ICC World Test Championship final next month. A keen follower of New Zealand cricket and in awe of India's growing bench strength, the 69-year-old expects a good game starting June 18. He spoke with TOI about the sentiment swirling around this inaugural edition.
Hadlee explained saying, "the Test Championship is a one-off game. Yes, it is a final, but I don't think either team will be too fazed about it. It is a neutral ground with no home advantage. It is something to look forward to. Both teams deserve to be contesting the final because of their consistency over a set period. It all comes down to who is better prepared and who adapts better to the English conditions the quickest. The weather may also play a part and if it is cold, that will favor New Zealand. The Duke ball will suit both team's fast bowlers, especially the genuine swing bowlers, and the Kiwis are well-served in that department with Southee, Boult, and Jamieson. If the ball seams around off the pitch, batsmen in both teams will be challenged."
The legendary fast bowler, commenting on India's importance in international cricket today, stated, "There is no doubt India produces a lot of revenue for cricket. Without India, the face of world cricket would be very different, therefore cricket needs India. But India has also made an outstanding contribution to Test cricket - like in all formats. Their Test performances in Australia were outstanding despite that 36 all-out blips. They bounced back superbly, and Test cricket came alive again. So many youngsters came into the team and performed. It showed the great depth of talented players India have in all formats"
