'I am surprised' - Former cricketer reacts to India's 2nd ODI loss against New Zealand

A former cricket great says he’s shocked by India’s 7-wicket defeat to New Zealand in the second ODI at Rajkot and analyzes what went wrong in the match.

Team India (Image Credit: BCCI)

In the second ODI against India, New Zealand went on to win the match by seven wickets, leveling the series, 1-1. The final ODI match has turned into a series decider with both teams looking forward to winning the series as well as the trophy. With several wonderful knocks, the series has turned into an incredible stage where the players have showcased their talents.

Talking about India's defeat in the second game, former cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin opened up about how New Zealand shouldn't be underestimated since they almost won two matches. Even in the first game, India had alsmot lost six wickets and were on the verge of losing the match.

"New Zealand almost won two matches. I won’t call it underestimation. My faith in Team India may have been a little overwhelming. The wicket was slightly up and down; it was slow during the day, looked difficult to adapt to, but honestly, I am surprised. I was reading how we can bowl well. Sure, our guy, our horse Kuldeep Yadav, didn’t have his best day," said Ravichandran Ashwin on his YouTube channel.

Washington Sundar ruled out of T20I series vs NZ

Washington Sundar has been ruled out of the T20I series against New Zealand and is unlikely to be in the T20 World Cup 1016 squad as well. He sustained an acute onset of discomfort in his left lower rib area as informed by the BCCI and is now ruled out of the series. The board hasn't announced the replacement yet.

With Sundar missing out and Tilak Varma injured, it is a huge blow for India ahead of the marquee event. In just a month, the selectors will have to find two replacements for the players who were the best fit for the team. There are many contenders like Ayush Badoni, Riyan Parag, Ruturaj Gaikwad, and others in line for this opportunity. But the board is likely to wait for the last moment before announcing the replacements.

Where to watch IND vs NZ matches?

Cricket fans in India can watch the India vs New Zealand last ODI match on January 18 online on JioHotstar, via OTTplay Premium.

Also read: Former India bowler blames Test series loss against SA on Kohli-Rohit transition, makes eye-opening claim

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