Josh Hazlewood on India’s Whitewash: A Potential Wake-Up Call Before the Border-Gavaskar Trophy

The experienced 33-year-old seamer believes that India’s defeat could serve as a crucial wake-up call as they gear up for their first five-match Test series against Australia since 1990. Hazlewood acknowledged that while the series loss is a setback for India, it also provides a morale boost for Australia, who have struggled in recent Border-Gavaskar Trophy contests, failing to secure a series win at home since the 2014-15 season and losing in both the 2018-19 and 2020-21 editions. Explaining the scenario he added

It’s obviously better for them losing 3-0 than winning 3-0, easily. The confidence might have taken a bit of a hit. A lot of them have been out here, but there’s a few batters who haven’t, so they’ll be a bit unsure of what to expect. I don’t think you can read too much into it. The results are obviously good for us in a way. Credit to the Kiwi boys. They played outstanding cricket. To win 3-0 in India is unbelievable. It’s hard enough to win one game there, let alone every match of the series.

India’s defeat has led to a drop in their standing in the World Test Championship, placing them second behind Australia. The current situation raises concerns about the possibility of both teams qualifying for a second consecutive WTC final which could go towards a dramatic revenge battle after the 2023 WTC defeat of “Men in Blue”.

In preparation for the upcoming series, India has decided to cancel a match simulation game that was scheduled to take place at the WACA in Perth from November 15 to 17. Instead, Rohit Sharma and his team will engage in centre-wicket practice at the venue to sharpen their skills before facing Australia for the most crucial game of this year.