Ross Taylor feels Team India will be nervous facing New Zealand in World Cup semifinal | IND vs NZ

Ross Taylor, who was part of New Zealand's 2019 World Cup semifinal playing XI vs India, feels that India would be nervous going against the Blackcaps in this edition of the tournament.

'Four years ago, India went into the semi-final as the form side in the tournament, while we were more focused on ensuring our net run rate would keep Pakistan out of reach for the final spot in the top four.

'This time around, India are even bigger favourites, at home and having played so well during the group stage. But when we have nothing to lose, New Zealand teams can be dangerous.'

'If there is a team that India will be nervous facing, it will be this New Zealand side,' Taylor told ICC.

Taylor said if New Zealand can strike early, it will put tremendous pressure on the Indian middle-order.

"The toss is important but if New Zealand can start well with bat and ball, that will give them a lot of confidence to stay in the fight.

"The first ten overs in both innings are crucial. When India are batting, you want to get them two or three down in the first ten overs to put them under pressure. They rely heavily on an excellent top three.

"There is Shubman Gill, the number one player in the world, and then Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. We need to try to make inroads and put the middle order under pressure.

"Then when India are bowling, it is similar. You want to score runs but it is also vital we keep wickets in hand against weapons like Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj and Mohammed Shami.

"When they get on a roll, they can be a lethal force, and the spinners can really pile on the pressure. If you keep wickets in hand, that is when it becomes a bit easier, rather than having to chase the game," said Taylor.