3 REASONS WHY NZ WON THE WTC FINAL
3
New Zealand's brilliant fielding
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New Zealand's exceptional fielding was one reason why the Blackcaps managed to defeat India in the World Test Championship (WTC) final. Tom Latham alone saved more than 30 runs with his fielding during the first innings of the game. The Kiwi batsman also took some great catches.
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Besides, Henry Nicholls took a fantastic catch to dismiss the well-set Rishabh Pant in the second innings. There were quite a few occasions in the WTC Final where the New Zealand players impressed with their fielding. These small things made helped the Kiwis win the WTC.
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Devon Conway and Kane Williamson's excellent batting
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The conditions in Southampton were tough to bat on. India had to work very hard for their 217 runs in the first innings. In reply, the Blackcaps scored 249 runs in their first innings. Devon Conway, playing his career's 3rd Test, became the first player to score a fifty in the WTC final.
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The New Zealand opener scored 54 runs off 153 deliveries. His captain Kane Williamson aggregated 49 runs in the first innings. In the second innings, Williamson scored an unbeaten 52* to guide New Zealand to the trophy. Conway and Williamson stood out in the New Zealand batting unit.
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Decision to pick five pace-bowling options and no spinners
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The Kiwis played 4 specialist pacers and a fast-bowling all-rounder for the WTC final. Trent Boult, Neil Wagner, Kyle Jamieson and Tim Southee troubled the Indian batsmen a lot. Colin de Grandhomme did not take a single wicket, but he rolled his arms when the regular pacers needed rest.
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New Zealand’s decision to go with 5 pace-bowling options proved to be a masterstroke. All four pacers, especially the giant Jamieson, made life difficult for the Indian batters at the Ageas Bowl. Jamieson emerged as the pick of the bowlers as he bagged seven wickets in the Test.
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