Gavaskar urges Indian batsmen to ‘play the ball as late as possible’ ahead of New Zealand Tests

Former opening batsman Sunil Gavaskar, now a senior mentor for the Indian Test squad, addressed the team ahead of their three‑match series in New Zealand. In a briefing held at the team's camp, he emphasized the need for patience at the crease, especially on the slower, seam‑friendly pitches expected in Wellington and Auckland.

Gavaskar’s core advice was to "play the ball as late as possible," a technique that allows batsmen to see the line and length more clearly before committing to a shot. He highlighted that late contact can reduce the risk of edging to the slip cordon and help players negotiate the moving ball more safely.

The former legend also reminded the players of past successful tours where disciplined shot selection paid dividends. As the squad prepares to depart for New Zealand next week, coaches and senior players are expected to integrate Gavaskar’s guidance into the batting drills, hoping it will translate into solid starts and higher totals in the upcoming Tests.