Ian Smith Surprised by Indian Batters' Declining Spin Play in Tests

• Cricketer-turned broadcaster Ian Smith is surprised by New Zealand's 3-0 Test series victory in India in late 2024, ending India's 12-year unbeaten home run.
• Smith attributes India's recent struggles in red-ball cricket at home to their batters' diminishing ability against spin bowling.
• Left-arm spinners Ajaz Patel and Mitchell Santner were key in New Zealand's Test win, while off-spinner Simon Harmer exposed Indian vulnerabilities in a recent South Africa series.
• Smith notes that Indian batters' spin play has declined, finding it difficult to pinpoint the exact cause despite the team's talent depth.
• Smith also expresses concern over young New Zealand players like Finn Allen declining central contracts for T20 leagues, though he understands older players like Kane Williamson doing so.

Why It Matters: Ian Smith highlights a surprising decline in Indian batters' spin play in Tests, impacting their home performance.