Martin Guptill has been struggling with form of late and he has also encountered a few injury issues. The 32-year-old flattered to deceive in the five-match series against India with 37 runs in four games and missed the last match due to a lower back injury. However, the right-handed batsman was back to his best in the first encounter of the three-game ODI series against Bangladesh at the McLean Park in Napier.
“The most pleasing thing was how the guys restricted Bangladesh up front with the ball. Losing 4 wickets in the first 10 is really tough to come back from. It (his back) is going to be a bit stiff. It is nice to see the boys home. Sometimes yes, sometimes no (time off from cricket helps) it still didn’t feel fluent. At most parts, we talk to each other but he (Taylor) just lets me through as I bat longer,” said Guptill while speaking to his wife.
Guptill was ruled out from the later phase of the India series and couldn’t take part in the T20I series at all. He would look to get a consistent run of performances under his belt ahead of the forthcoming ICC World Cup as the Kiwis hope to clinch their first-ever title. The win at Napier has given New Zealand a 1-0 lead over Bangladesh in the 3-match series.
