India will be more prepared for WTC final: Ross Taylor

As the World Test Championship Final draws closer, the excitement surrounding the marquee clash amongst the fans knows no boundaries. Veteran New Zealand batsman Ross Taylor believes that the suspension of the 2021 Indian Premier League has helped India to be better equipped for the World Test Championship Final. 

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and IPL Governing Council decided to postpone the tournament due to a COVID outbreak in its bio-bubble. Taylor, who is currently in the United Kingdom for the two-match Test series against England, said Virat Kohli’s troops will be more prepared than they would have been if IPL had taken place as planned. 

“I couldn't think of better preparation than playing two Test matches in England. At the end of the day, it is a neutral venue. In terms of India, IPL finishing early has probably played into the hands a little bit," Taylor was quoted as saying in a virtual press conference.

The Blackcaps are scheduled to play two Tests against England, beginning June 2 and then they will face India in World Test Championship Final. The 37-year-old feels it will give them a slight advantage when they face India on June 18.

“Playing these two Test matches gives us a slight advantage but this Indian team have been number one in the world for a long time and had a lot of success over here [in England. I guess we can't ask for a better schedule leading into the WTC final. At this time of the year bowlers will be relishing the conditions," he said.