Fast bowler Navdeep Saini is steadily making a mark in international cricket and pushing consistently for the third seamer’s slot in the Indian white-ball set-up.
In the 2nd ODI against New Zealand, the fans and experts witnessed a different side of Saini when the young lad tore apart the Kiwi pacers at the Eden Park.
Saini’s 76-run partnership for the eighth wicket with all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja kept India in pursuit of a 274-run target but the latter’s dismissal crushed the team’s hopes.
With the win in Auckland ODI, the Black Caps also took an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.
Speaking at the post-match press conference, Saini named Kiwi opener Guptill has his toughest opponent so far.
“I think Martin Guptill is an aggressive player and is a challenge for me,” Saini said as quoted by DNA.
Guptill spearheaded New Zealand’s batting in the second game with a run-a-ball 79 and along with Henry Nicholls proceeded to give the hosts an ideal start as they eventually racked up a match-winning total of 279/8.
“I will regret it when I go back and see the video. If I hadn’t got out, maybe the result could have been different. Will regret that I took it so close and maybe could have gotten closer,” Saini added.
Both the teams will now compete in the last game of the 50-over series on Tuesday, February 10.
