Taylor, who was part of the New Zealand team that won the inaugural edition of the WTC, expressed his opinion that India’s chances are favorable this time around. With the match taking place at The Oval, Taylor noted that if the pitch begins to offer turn later in the game, it could play into India’s hands due to the presence of spinners Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin.
“India with Jadeja and Ashwin and if the ball does turn as the game goes on, I think that will play into India’s hands,” Taylor shared during an event ahead of the WTC Final, moderated by Harsha Bhogle.
However, Taylor also acknowledged Australia’s advantage of playing the Ashes series regularly, which provides them with valuable experience in five-match Test series every few years.
“We have seen that wherever India plays around the world, they are well supported. The Australian team plays the Ashes series frequently and has the experience of participating in a five-match series every 3 or 4 years,” Taylor added.
India secured their spot in the WTC Final by defeating Australia 2-1 in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy earlier this year. The series was closely contested, with Australia narrowly avoiding relegation from the top spot by securing a victory in the third Test in Indore.
Both teams will be without key fast bowlers, as India’s Jasprit Bumrah is sidelined due to a back surgery, while Australia’s Josh Hazlewood is out of the final clash due to persistent issues with his Achilles heel.
