DHONI, KIRSTEN CONFIDENT OF DOING WELL IN NEW ZEALAND

Wednesday, February 18, 2009

Posted by Snehsan

It would require immaculate planning and perfect execution if the team is to win its first Test series in New Zealand in 40 years, Indian cricket captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni said on Wednesday. "It's going to be a tough tour, but every place has its challenges. Foreign players come here and struggle against spin and bounce. We would focus on planning well and in executing those plans. The results will follow," said the wicketkeeper-batsman at a pre-departure media conference. Coach Gary Kirsten too expressed confidence in the team's ability to do well in conditions that are vastly different to what the players are used to at home. "We have a very balanced team -- in batting, pace and spin bowling. We are capable of playing in any condition. Conditions will be vastly different and the weather would be cold with a bit of rain. But we have the players to overcome these," Kirsten said. India have not won a Test series in New Zealand since their first and only triumph, by a 3-1 margin under Mansur Ali Khan Pataudi in 1967-68. They commence the 47-day tour with two Twenty20 Internationals which are to be followed by five ODIs and the three-Test series. The team is departing on Thursday morning.