NZ series whitewash might awaken sleeping giant India: Josh Hazlewood

Josh Hazlewood believes India can make a strong comeback in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy after a shocking series loss to New Zealand.

Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood believes India's confidence would have been shaken by the shocking series loss to New Zealand, but the "sleeping giant" can mount a strong comeback in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy starting later this month.

India suffered a humiliating series whitewash after losing the third match by 25 runs to New Zealand in Mumbai on Sunday (November 3, 2024), the first time in their Test history, which goes back to 1933.

"It might awaken a sleeping giant, so to speak. We'll see that when they come out," Hazlewood told Sydney Morning Herald.

Not only did the drubbing at home mark one of the darkest moments in India's Test cricket history, it has also significantly impacted the Rohit Sharma-led side's chances of qualifying for next year's World Test Championship (WTC) final.

Three back-to-back losses meant that India have lost their top spot to Australia in the WTC standings.

India are now faced with a tough task to win four of their five matches against Australia to qualify for their third consecutive WTC final without relying on external results.

"It's obviously better 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 are a few batters who haven't, so they'll be a bit unsure of what to expect," Hazlewood said.