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Sports
India aim to bounce back in second friendly after heavy loss to New Zealand
✍️ The Times of India
🗓 15 Nov 2026, 01:31 AM
👁 19
Following a comprehensive defeat by New Zealand in their opening friendly, the Indian cricket team is focusing on a stronger performance in the upcoming second match.
India’s first warm‑up match against New Zealand ended in a rout, leaving the side with little to celebrate and a clear need to regroup. The loss exposed gaps in both batting depth and bowling discipline, prompting the coaching staff to reassess strategies ahead of the next fixture.
The team is set to play a second friendly later this week, offering a chance to correct the shortcomings exposed in the opener. While exact line‑up details remain pending, selectors are expected to give fringe players an opportunity to stake a claim for the upcoming series.
Cricket analysts note that a focused approach on field placements and a more measured batting tempo could help India restore confidence before the competitive series begins. The upcoming encounter will therefore serve as a crucial barometer for the side’s readiness.
The team is set to play a second friendly later this week, offering a chance to correct the shortcomings exposed in the opener. While exact line‑up details remain pending, selectors are expected to give fringe players an opportunity to stake a claim for the upcoming series.
Cricket analysts note that a focused approach on field placements and a more measured batting tempo could help India restore confidence before the competitive series begins. The upcoming encounter will therefore serve as a crucial barometer for the side’s readiness.