IND Vs NZ | How Can Virat Kohli & Rohit Sharma Counter Trent Boult And Matt Henry?

image-lnzs8d0wTrent Boult could be a threat to Indian top order [AP]

After securing consecutive thumping victories in their first four matches, India will take on New Zealand in their fifth group-stage game in the ongoing World Cup. Led by Rohit Sharma, India have been absolutely phenomenal in the tournament so far. However, given that they haven't defeated New Zealand in an ICC event since 2003, this game provides a golden opportunity to the hosts to break the Kiwi jinx. 

Meanwhile, New Zealand's lethal bowling pair, comprising Trent Boult and Matt Henry, could be a threat to the Indian batting unit, given their incredible ability to make the new ball talk. Boult and Henry have impressive numbers against India, scalping 24 and 15 wickets in 13 and 9 matches, respectively. 

So, before India take on their perennial nemesis, let's analyse and find out how they can  counter the Kiwi duo. 


Take stance outside the crease

One of the most basic and effective tactics to counter the moving ball is to take stance outside the crease. By doing this, the Indian batters can make the Kiwi duo pull their length back. Also, they might get a few freebies, pitched either too full or too short, to capitalise on and get some runs under their belt. 


Play late through the square

When the ball moves, either in the air or off the surface, it's essential to allow it to move and play it late through the square. So, the Indian batters should avoid playing through the V region (from mid off to mid on) and try to play through the square of the wicket as much as possible, particularly in the initial phase. 


Adopt a bold and positive approach

Adopting an ultra-defensive approach against the moving ball could prove fatal, as it allows the bowlers to keep bowling at the ideal channel. On the contrary, if the Indian openers bat with a slightly aggressive approach, they can unsettle Boult and Henry and ensure a positive start for their side. 

They adopted a similar approach against Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah in India's Asia Cup clash against Pakistan, and it paid rich dividends. So, we expect Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill not to be timid and take some chances to keep the Kiwis under the pump right from the word go.