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New Zealand Finds Unexpected Support as India's 'Second Favourite'

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Monday, February 23rd 2026 at 4:09 GMT by The Straits Times
      Locales: NEW ZEALAND, INDIA

Mumbai, India - February 23rd, 2026 - As the Cricket World Cup progresses, a fascinating dynamic is emerging beyond the on-field battles. New Zealand cricketer Daryl Mitchell's recent observation - that his team is increasingly perceived as India's 'second favourite' - highlights a potential, and somewhat unusual, advantage the Black Caps may be able to exploit. While the home crowd's overwhelming support for India is undeniable, the concept of a team benefiting from being the 'alternative' choice is intriguing and could prove crucial in the tournament's remaining stages.

Mitchell, speaking to reporters ahead of Wednesday's critical match against South Africa in Mumbai, acknowledged the fervent passion of Indian fans. "It's obviously a huge support for India. It's great to see that passion, but we feel like we've got a lot of support too," he stated. This isn't simply a case of hoping for scraps of applause; Mitchell believes a substantial portion of the fanbase, while loyal to India, appreciates New Zealand's consistent performance, sporting spirit, and underdog narrative.

This 'second favourite' phenomenon isn't new to major sporting events. Often, fans, even those deeply invested in their own national team, develop a soft spot for a side that embodies admirable qualities or offers a refreshing contrast. New Zealand has long cultivated this image. They've consistently reached the latter stages of World Cups, often exceeding expectations, without the same level of intense media scrutiny or expectation that accompanies cricketing giants like India, Australia, or England.

However, extrapolating this sentiment into tangible performance gains is a complex undertaking. The sheer volume of noise and atmosphere generated by Indian supporters in stadiums is a significant factor. It can intimidate opponents and galvanize the home team. New Zealand can't simply wish away that energy. Instead, they need to channel the positive support they are receiving, transforming it into a source of motivation and belief. This means actively acknowledging and responding to the pockets of New Zealand flags and cheers within the larger Indian crowd, fostering a connection with those fans who are willing to look beyond national allegiance.

The psychological impact of being perceived as the 'underdog' can also be powerful. It relieves some of the pressure and allows players to express themselves more freely. While India is burdened with the weight of a billion expectations, New Zealand can operate with a degree of liberation. This was evident in their semi-final run in the 2019 World Cup, where they played with a carefree abandon that surprised many observers.

Wednesday's match against South Africa is a prime example of where this support, or lack thereof, could become significant. Mumbai is a notoriously difficult venue for visiting teams, with a predominantly pro-India crowd. If New Zealand can connect with the neutral or sympathetic elements within that crowd, it could provide a crucial boost, especially during tense moments. Conversely, a hostile atmosphere could easily exacerbate pressure on key players.

Beyond the immediate impact of fan support, New Zealand's strategy also hinges on their core cricketing strengths: solid batting, disciplined bowling, and exceptional fielding. Mitchell, a key all-rounder, will be vital in providing both runs and wickets. The team's ability to adapt to Indian conditions - particularly the spin-friendly pitches - will also be critical. They've invested heavily in developing players who can excel in these conditions, and their success will depend on how effectively they execute their game plan.

Ultimately, while Mitchell's observation about New Zealand being India's 'second favourite' is a nuanced one, it highlights a potential psychological edge. It's a reminder that in a global tournament like the Cricket World Cup, the support of the crowd, even in pockets, can be a powerful force. New Zealand will need to capitalize on that, combining it with their established cricketing prowess to navigate the challenges ahead and keep their semi-final hopes alive.