New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson lauded his bowling attack after Test victory over India.
The Black Caps bagged a 10-wicket win over the tourists with a strong display in Wellington. India were bowled out for just 165 in the first innings and 191 in the second.
Williamson heaped praise on New Zealand’s bowlers after taking a 1-0 lead in the two-match series.
He said: “There wasn't the sort of wind that we expect here in Wellington but we got a bit of shape and created opportunities. A fantastic effort and special effort with the ball and some handy contributions with the bat too. So, a good all-around performance.
“”It was when we changed back to our original plan to put the ball in the right area whilst using the change of length as the wicket improved a little bit from a batting perspective is when we were creating more opportunities.
“We tried doing things a little bit differently but the best part of the bowling performance was their ability to put the ball into an area that creates the most opportunity for dismissals like lbws, bowled or caught behind.”
New Zealand now go to Christchurch for the second and final Test on Friday. They need to win to level the series but are still considered marginal favourites to get the win.
They can be backed at 2.30 (13/10) with 10Cric to follow up at the Hagley Oval. India, meanwhile, are priced at 2.25 (5/4) to hit back. The draw is at 5.45 (40/9).
Creative bowling was key for Black Caps
The way his bowlers came up with clever ways to get the most out of the Wellington pitch is what pleased Williamson most about the performance.
He added: “The guys had to get a little bit creative when the ball got bit soft. It was quite tough to create those opportunities and you didn't feel like you were going to get a nick behind unless you did something different.
“It's always in conversation with the bowlers at the top of the mark where we might try and skin it but it was great the bowlers were able to adapt quickly from the first to the second innings and hit a slightly different area and still be demanding.”
