Sachin Tendulkar and other cricket legends react to India's disappointing performance
New Zealand stunned the cricketing world with a resounding 25-run victory over India in the third and final Test, securing a historic 3-0 whitewash on Indian soil. This clean sweep marks the first time India has been defeated in every match of a three-Test series at home, a remarkable feat that has drawn reactions from cricket legends across the globe.
Sachin Tendulkar: "Losing 3-0 at home is a tough pill to swallow, and it calls for introspection. Was it lack of preparation, poor shot selection, or lack of match practice? Full credit to New Zealand for their consistent performance throughout the series. Winning 3-0 in India is as good a result as it can get."
Michael Vaughan, former England captain, hailed the Kiwis’ achievement: "To win in India is incredible, but to deliver a clean sweep is remarkable. This has to be the greatest ever Test series victory. India now have a group of batters that struggle like most teams against spin."
The result has left Indian fans and cricket analysts in shock, and Irfan Pathan, ex-India seamer, expressed frustration: "This is an embarrassing display by Team India at home. A lot to ponder over by the decision-makers. Well done, New Zealand, on such a terrific performance."
Harbhajan Singh, former India spinner, pointed to the impact of turning pitches on India’s performance: "Turning pitches becoming our own enemy. Congratulations, New Zealand; you outplayed us. I've been saying for years that Team India needs to play on better pitches. These turning pitches are making every batsman look very ordinary."
Former batsman Yuvraj Singh commented on the game’s humbling nature: "Cricket truly is a humbling sport, isn’t it? Just months after our T20 World Cup win, we face a historic whitewash. That's the beauty of this game! Bigger tests lie ahead with the Australia series, and the way forward is to introspect, learn, and look up! Congratulations to the @BLACKCAPS on a well-rounded performance and a historic win."
Adding an international perspective, former West Indies fast bowler Ian Bishop highlighted New Zealand’s resilience: "Amazing from New Zealand. A population of less than 6 million. No Kane Williamson. They have conquered an unenviable task, and both men's and women's teams have had a historic and proud few weeks."