Santner Elaborates on Defensive Spin Role Following Match-Winning Display
Following his crucial performance with the ball in the fourth T20 International against India at the ACA-VDCA Stadium in Visakhapatnam, left-arm spinner Mitchell Santner provided detailed insights into his specific role within the New Zealand T20I setup. Santner, who claimed three wickets for just 26 runs during New Zealand's 50-run victory, emphasized that his primary objective is to bowl defensively, build sustained pressure on the batting side, and subsequently take wickets as a direct result of that pressure-building strategy.
Defensive Mindset and Adapting to Conditions
"I believe my role often involves playing a slightly more defensive game and attempting to secure wickets through that method," Santner stated during the post-match press conference. "There are moments where being tactically smart is key; conceding six singles can be a favorable outcome. We have witnessed considerable power-hitting and numerous high scores in modern T20 cricket. Therefore, I think the spinner's role in T20Is, particularly on surfaces without significant turn, is to create pressure and dismiss batters as a consequence of that pressure."
He further elaborated on the need for adaptability based on the match situation. "When defending a substantial total, allowing the required run rate to climb is part of the plan. Conversely, when defending a lower score, the most effective way to halt the opposition is by taking wickets. So, ultimately, it's about adapting to the circumstances and responding to what the game presents," Santner added, highlighting the nuanced decision-making required of a modern T20 bowler.
Key Dismissals and Executing the Plan
Santner identified the early dismissal of the in-form Indian opener Abhishek Sharma, who was out for a golden duck, as a pivotal moment that allowed New Zealand to establish early control and apply pressure on the Indian batting lineup. "In the previous matches, their batters were off to flying starts. To dismiss Abhishek early, that's about as challenging as it gets for a bowling side. I mentioned to our bowlers that this was the toughest scenario, so it was particularly satisfying to stage a strong comeback in this match," he remarked.
The spinner also provided a technical breakdown of how he dismissed the dangerous Hardik Pandya, explaining that a subtle change in flight led to an edge that was comfortably caught by Zak Foulkes within the inner circle. "I have bowled extensively to Hardik during net sessions with Mumbai Indians, so there's mutual familiarity. In that specific game situation, adopting a defensive approach felt like the only viable strategy to secure a victory, because stopping the Indian team when they gain momentum is exceptionally difficult," Santner noted, underscoring the importance of prior knowledge and match-specific tactics.
Praise for Opposition and World Cup Preparation
Despite the loss in this particular match, Santner acknowledged the explosive batting of India's Shivam Dube, who scored a rapid 65 runs from just 23 deliveries. "I've observed him perform like that frequently, and he strikes the ball with tremendous power and distance. However, we recognized that if we could claim his wicket, their batting depth was not as extensive as in other matches. Dube possesses a very clear game plan; when a spinner is introduced, he identifies that as a favorable match-up for himself," Santner explained, demonstrating analytical respect for the opposition.
Although India clinched the series victory, Santner expressed confidence that the experience gained from navigating diverse match situations during both the ODI and T20I contests in India would prove invaluable for New Zealand's campaign in the upcoming T20 World Cup next month. "I mentioned at the series outset that there is no superior preparation than facing India in their home conditions prior to a World Cup. Irrespective of the final results, we were rigorously tested in the initial games. This tour is about continuous learning and positioning players in specific roles where they can excel," he concluded.
"If we encounter India at any stage during the World Cup, or even face similar pitch conditions to what we expect there, having already experienced these high-pressure scenarios will allow us to approach them with greater clarity and composure," Santner added, framing the entire tour as an essential preparatory exercise for the global tournament ahead.
