New Zealand batter Henry Nicholls is quite positive about his chances of regaining a place in the Test side. The 32-year-old from Christchurch was dropped from the Test side for the home series against South Africa earlier this year. He was replaced by young sensation Rachin Ravindra. But he was called back for the following series against Australia and that gave Nicholls the confidence that he was still in the scheme of things for the Black Caps team management.
The 56-Test veteran has been an important part of the New Zealand’s Test side since scoring a fifty in his debut match in 2016 against Australia. And he was also a member of the side that won the inaugural World Test Championship, beating India in the Final in Southampton, England, in 2021. He didn’t contribute much with the bat in that match but took a brilliant catch to dismiss dangerous Rishabh Pant in the second innings. Excerpts from his interaction with ET Sport.
In his interaction, Nicholls reflects on the significance of winning the World Test Championship and describes it as a massive occasion. He highlights the firsts involved, such as it being the first Test Championship cycle and the first six-day Test match he played. He expresses the special feeling of being part of New Zealand’s first world title and reflects on the squad’s journey over the two years, playing Tests in different countries.
When asked about the future of Test cricket amidst the proliferation of T20 leagues, Nicholls believes that Test cricket remains the pinnacle for many players. He highlights the added meaning and impetus provided by the Test Championship in recent years. He hopes that Test cricket and T20 leagues can coexist and support each other.
Regarding his Test career, Nicholls acknowledges the disappointment of missing out on the home series against South Africa but appreciates the feedback from the coaches and selectors, stating that it’s not the end of the road for him. He draws inspiration from players like Usman Khawaja, who had a resurgence in their careers at a later age. Nicholls aims to keep enjoying his cricket, play good cricket, and hopes to continue playing Test cricket for a few more years.
Nicholls expresses pride in his 56-Test career and the memories created. He desires to be part of the Test Championships winning side in the future. He emphasizes the importance of enjoying the game and the perspective provided by having a family. He aspires to score as many runs as he can and prolong his Test cricket career.
In the Super Smash, Nicholls topped the batting charts with 317 runs. While he enjoyed the personal success, he also acknowledges the disappointment of not getting a call-up for the T20 series against Pakistan. He remains focused on playing good cricket and leaving the selection decisions to the selectors.
As a player who hasn’t participated in the IPL, Nicholls recognizes it as the pinnacle T20 event in the world. He admires the competitiveness, passion, and energy that surround the tournament. Nicholls has talked to players who have played in the IPL and heard their experiences of sell-out crowds and exciting atmospheres. He expresses his excitement for the New Zealand players participating in the IPL and enjoys watching their success.
Sony Sports Network has acquired the exclusive broadcast rights of New Zealand Cricket for seven years. The interaction with Nicholls was arranged by Sony Sports Network.
