xtratime Logo

Xtra Time Web Desk: Former India captain Anil Kumble expressed disappointment with India’s performance following their first-ever home Test series defeat to New Zealand, led by Tom Latham. Speaking on Jio Cinema after the Pune Test, Kumble urged India to "get their act together" before the Border-Gavaskar Trophy tour in Australia. 

Read More:

IND vs NZ: Mitchell Santner bags career-best figures as NZ wins historic India series

Kumble criticized the batting lineup, stating it was "high time" for the batters to deliver, especially given the bowlers’ consistent efforts in securing 20 wickets per Test. He highlighted the importance of each match under the World Test Championship (WTC) format, noting, “Every Test match is equally important... They’ve obviously made it harder for themselves.”

"I know India has done really well in the last two series that they played in Australia but again it's all the more tougher for India to qualify, but they have to really get their act together. The batting has been disappointing. The bowling will have its challenges right throughout. The reason that India is on the top there is because Indian bowlers have been able to pick up those 20 wickets. The batting needs to come together and start getting those runs," he further added.

Read More:

IND vs NZ: After a shameful series loss, what excuse did Rohit Sharma give?

India now needs at least four wins in their remaining six WTC matches to secure direct qualification for the WTC 2025 final, starting with a crucial final Test against New Zealand at the Wankhede Stadium. Kumble pointed out the increased pressure on the team, especially with an upcoming series in Australia, urging both the batting and bowling units to rise to the challenge to keep their qualification hopes alive.