Craig Cumming, a former New Zealand cricketer, has praised Tom Latham's exceptional leadership during the Blackcaps' remarkable 3-0 Test series win against India. This series marked Latham's debut as the full-time captain, and he successfully led his team to an unprecedented series sweep on Indian soil.
Cumming commended Latham's effective simplicity, stating, “He captained the team brilliantly,” during an interview with SENZ Afternoons. The former cricketer highlighted Latham’s strategic decision to give bowlers like Mitchell Santner and Ajaz Patel the confidence to settle into their rhythm. Unlike past series where excessive changes were made, Latham trusted his bowlers, which allowed them to focus on their strengths and perform effectively.
Cumming noted that Latham’s balanced approach extended to the batting lineup as well. He encouraged a proactive mentality, prompting players to engage and confront challenging deliveries assertively. “Every ball was a battle in itself,” he remarked, emphasising the team's spirit and resilience.
Ultimately, Cumming believes that Latham's straightforward style will be remembered as a defining characteristic of this historic series. With confidence instilled in his players and a clear vision, Latham's captaincy has undoubtedly set a positive precedent for the future of New Zealand cricket.