Auckland, September 23, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
New Zealand head coach Rob Walter is looking forward to seeing teenage Indian batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi tested on pace and bouncy pitches when the two teams meet in the upcoming five-match T20I series.
Sooryavanshi has made headlines with his aggressive batting in the IPL and at the U19 World Cup, earning his T20I debut for India against England in July. He did not feature in India’s 3-0 T20I series against Afghanistan or their narrow two-run win over Japan, but could face a different challenge on New Zealand’s seam-friendly surfaces when the series begins on October 22.
“I’d love to see him on some pace in bouncy wickets and see how different that looks. But he’s an exciting player. You’ve seen him dominate against the world’s best bowlers in the IPL,” Walter told reporters on Wednesday.
The New Zealand coach said the key challenge would be seeing how Sooryavanshi adapts to different conditions and how the Black Caps can bowl to him at home. He also admitted that, as a coach, he would like to see how the teenager responds if placed under pressure.
Walter was also asked about the recent India-Japan T20I, which attracted attention over a disputed wide call. He said he had watched only a brief portion of the match and had not followed the controversy closely.
Reflecting on New Zealand’s defeat to India in the T20 World Cup final earlier this year, Walter acknowledged that losing a final remains difficult but said his team’s priority was to represent New Zealand well rather than seek revenge.
“No one likes to lose a final,” Walter said, adding that the focus would be on taking care of the smaller steps and playing good cricket at home.
With the 2027 ODI World Cup approaching, Walter said New Zealand already have a clear playing blueprint and a settled understanding of their squad, with only adjustments expected over the coming year.
The coach also welcomed the opportunity to host India, describing the five-match T20I and ODI series as a significant opportunity for his players. He said he would have liked a third Test to complete the schedule but acknowledged that the existing programme offered plenty of cricket against one of the world’s leading teams.
Walter also highlighted the unique experience of watching cricket in New Zealand, with smaller grounds, different settings and grass banks at some venues. He said the team expected strong support from fans, regardless of whether the Indian diaspora outnumbered local supporters.
The coach further noted that late-evening matches during New Zealand’s October conditions could bring chilly temperatures, which he jokingly described as a potential advantage. However, he said managing sleep, recovery and travel between matches would be crucial, as late finishes could affect players’ preparation.
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