WTC is exciting for the game, it puts big onus on Test cricket: New Zealand wicketkeeper BJ Watling

By ANI

SOUTHAMPTON: New Zealand wicketkeeper-batsman BJ Watling has said that the World Test Championship (WTC) is exciting for the game of cricket and it puts a big onus on the longest format of the game.

Watling’s remarks came as New Zealand defeated India by eight wickets in the finals of the World Test Championship (WTC) on Wednesday here at the Ageas Bowl. This match was Watling’s last in his international career.

“It’s been a lot of hard work for a long time for our team as a group. And to get over the line like that, was pretty satisfying. Some of us were up top and a few down at the bottom, and it was fantastic that we finished it off with two of our greatest on the pitch that was still doing a bit. The WTC is extremely exciting for the game. It puts a big onus on the Test game, and I’m pretty stoked. I’d like to thank my family back home,” Watling told host broadcaster Star Sports.

“My mum has been a huge help through tough times. My wife Jess, two boys, Miller and Hudson. It’s been a long time away from home. We’ve had a pretty special group, and I’m extremely happy to end it on a high,” he added.

Kane Williamson and Ross Taylor played unbeaten knocks off 52 and 47 respectively as New Zealand defeated India by eight wickets to clinch the inaugural edition of the WTC.

A complete effort on the Reserve Day saw New Zealand edging India in a final which had its ebbs and flows in the first innings. The Kiwis made full use of the slender 32-run lead and the Williamson-led side bundled out India cheaply in the second innings to get a target of just 139. The batsmen did not relent and in the end, the side walked away with a comfortable victory.

Earlier, Tim Southee scalped four wickets as India was bundled out for 170 in the second innings on the Reserve Day. The inspired show with the ball ensured that New Zealand would need to score 139 runs in a minimum of 53 overs to win the title.

As New Zealand wicketkeeper Watling stepped out to the field in international cricket for the final time on Wednesday, India skipper Virat Kohli was quick to congratulate him on a phenomenal career. Kohli congratulated Watling as both India and New Zealand stepped out to the field on the Reserve Day of the WTC final.