New Zealand fast bowler Kyle Jamieson has welcomed the bowler-friendly conditions in the ongoing ODI series against India, describing the low-scoring contests as a refreshing change for bowlers after a high-scoring T20I series between the two sides.
The T20I series witnessed New Zealand register their highest-ever total at home, while India produced a remarkable chase of 198 runs in just 13.2 overs. However, the ODI series has presented a completely different challenge, with bowlers dominating proceedings in the opening matches.
In the second ODI in Wellington on Saturday, New Zealand were bowled out for just 134 runs, but the modest target still produced a thrilling contest. India eventually secured a narrow four-run victory to take control of the match.
Reacting to the challenging batting conditions, Jamieson expressed his satisfaction with pitches offering greater assistance to bowlers.
"What do you think? You like it? You guys like it? I mean, I'm biased, so I'm always going to say it's nice to have them back," Jamieson said when asked about the low-scoring matches.
The New Zealand pacer, who bowled 10 overs and claimed three wickets for 35 runs, believes such conditions provide an opportunity to showcase the skills of fast bowlers.
"I feel like I've played on a fair few pitches and a fair few wickets where going at tens is probably a good day. So it's nice to have a little bit of favour now again. I hope the viewer can appreciate some of the skill that was on show from both bowling line-ups and some of the batters as well," he added.
Jamieson Praises Bowlers' Performance
India's Gurnoor Brar delivered a standout performance in the second ODI, picking up four wickets for 35 runs to play a crucial role in restricting New Zealand to a modest total.
The pitch offered significant and uneven bounce, with rain-affected conditions making batting particularly difficult. Fast bowlers from both teams enjoyed considerable success, averaging fewer than 15 runs per wicket.
Jamieson described the conditions as a welcome change for the bowling unit and pointed towards the fresh drop-in pitch as one of the reasons behind the difference in playing conditions.
"It was nice, wasn't it? Nice change for us bowlers. I think it was a fresh drop-in pitch, from my understanding, and it can just change," he said.
He also praised New Zealand's fighting spirit, explaining that the team remained committed to making an impact with the ball despite having a below-par total to defend.
New Zealand Not Frustrated Despite Low Totals
New Zealand have struggled to put up substantial scores in the ODI series, managing 185 runs in the first match before being dismissed for just 134 in Wellington.
However, Jamieson insisted that the team was not frustrated by its batting performances, pointing out that conditions have played an important role in determining the difficulty of batting first.
According to the fast bowler, teams batting second have enjoyed slightly better conditions under lights, when moisture in the pitch makes batting easier.
"There are days when we'd like more runs, and there are days when I'm sure the batters would like us to take a few more wickets too. So, just part and parcel," Jamieson said.
He added that the team would review its performance, learn from the experience and look to produce a stronger effort in the third ODI in Hamilton on Tuesday.
Jamieson Feeling Comfortable After Injury Concerns
Jamieson also spoke about his return to form following the winter break, admitting that regaining match rhythm and mental freedom took some time.
The New Zealand pacer revealed that he had initially been cautious about his bowling because of concerns surrounding his lower back, particularly the L4 and L5 areas of his spine.
"It sort of felt like a little bit of a slow burn, trying to just get the game rhythm back under my belt. Mentally, just trying to get over the hurdle of allowing myself to let go and play with that freedom," he explained.
However, Jamieson believes his recovery is progressing well and is pleased with the way things have developed since the UK Test series.
He said he enjoyed a good winter break and currently feels that his game and fitness are in a positive place.
With the third ODI approaching, New Zealand will hope to bounce back in Hamilton, while Jamieson will look to continue making an impact with the ball on conditions that are finally offering fast bowlers a greater share of the contest.
