Mumbai/Chrischurch: The mystery and the mystique of the country and the fact that India have never won a series there in the last 41 years, clearly made Dhoni aware of what his side are up against. "Each place has its own demands and challenges. New Zealand is a difficult challenge. The best we can do is to provide the right environment so that the team can practice, plan well and execute things of perfectioin." Dhoni said.
At the same time Dhoni sought to downplay suggestions of his boys being uder presure. "Overseas assignments are tough and New Zealand is unique in sme ways. We have to ensure that we give it our 100%. We have to perform as a team to win. It's not about how much pressure we are under.", he remarked.
Dhoni called upon each player in his side to put in their best in search of history. "The challenge is not about what roles certain individuals will play. It's bout form and adaptablitiy."
India's South African coach Gary Kirsten, who himself excelled as a batsman in New Zealand, termed the opposition as fighters but was sure of the Indian team risiing to the challenge. "The Kiwis are comptetitive and are fighters. It's not an easy team to beat at home. Any team wanting to do that will need to understand the conditions there and the weather", he said.
The last time India toured New Zealand six years ago they went down 2-0 in Tests and lost the One-day series 2-5. But India's current form in all three forms of the game has Vettori worried and he said stopping Dhoni and Sehwag could turn into a nightmare for his bowlers.
ITINERAY |
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