Daryl Mitchell, a key figure in New Zealand’s batting lineup, credited his success on spin-friendly subcontinent pitches to his preparation at New Zealand Cricket’s specially designed pitch marquee facility
in Lincoln.
Mitchell, trailing Virat Kohli by a single rating point in the ICC rankings for ODI batters, has been in remarkable form against India on their home turf. His recent scores include 130, 134, 84, and an unbeaten 131.
The 34-year-old delivered a splendid 117-ball 131 not out on Wednesday, leading New Zealand to a series-levelling seven-wicket victory in the second ODI against India.
Speaking to reporters, Mitchell said, “There have been many mornings in the marquee down in the South Island in Lincoln on prepared dusty wickets to devise game plans for this part of the world.”
Highlighting the unseen effort behind his performances, he added, “That’s the work that people don’t see, away from the spotlight. It’s rewarding when it pays off. I love playing for my country, travelling, and competing in international cricket across all formats.”
The Lincoln pitch marquee facility enables New Zealand players to simulate specific conditions ahead of tours and provides a training venue during winters.
Mitchell, who has enjoyed significant success in the Asian subcontinent, has scored 1,457 ODI runs at an average of 56.03, including five centuries and six fifties. In India, from 15 matches, he has amassed 801 runs at an average of 66.75 with three centuries and three fifties. In Pakistan, he has scored 576 runs in 12 matches at an average of 48 with two centuries and two fifties, though he is yet to play ODIs in Sri Lanka.
Mitchell observed, “As New Zealanders, we grow up on bouncy, grassy wickets. Playing international cricket necessitates adapting. I’ve become comfortable with my batting approach in these conditions, whether using my feet, playing sweep shots, or using the crease to pressure bowlers.”
Reflecting on his learning process, he said, “It’s been a learning journey over several years.”
Mitchell also praised KL Rahul’s innings of 112 not out from 92 balls, noting, “He balanced the innings well, especially after India lost a few wickets. He absorbed pressure and scored at the end.”
Mitchell and Will Young laid the foundation for New Zealand’s chase with a 162-run partnership for the second wicket, with Young scoring 87.
“I enjoy batting with Youngy; we’ve had some good times and become quite competitive with the opposition. He played brilliantly, soaking up the pressure from the new ball and then finding ways to keep the scoreboard moving,” Mitchell said.
New Zealand’s win was also aided by subpar bowling from Indian spinners, with Kuldeep Yadav (1/82) often missing his lengths. However, Mitchell backed the Indian spinners to bounce back, stating, “Kuldeep and Jadeja are world-class bowlers. They can pressure us and have torn through teams in the past. We were fortunate to build partnerships and apply pressure on them.”
Mitchell concluded by expressing confidence in the ability of the Indian spinners to recover and perform well in future matches.
With PTI Inputs
