New Zealand will take on India in the first Test of the three-match series at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru from Wednesday, October 16.
As the India vs New Zealand Test series kicks off tomorrow (October 16), New Zealand will be eager to bounce back from their 2-0 loss against Sri Lanka. India, on the other hand, will look to maintain their unbeaten Test series streak at home, which has been intact since 2012.
However, New Zealand have some key players in their squad who could challenge India on home soil. Let’s take a look at five New Zealand players who have the potential to trouble India in the upcoming series.
Tom Latham, New Zealand’s experienced opener, will lead the team in Williamson’s absence. Known for his reliable technique and ability to build long innings, Latham plays a crucial role at the top of the batting order.
In his 82-Test career, Latham has scored 5519 runs, averaging 39.4, with 13 centuries and 29 fifties. Along with captaining the side, he’ll be responsible for providing a solid start against India’s strong bowling attack. His leadership and experience will be essential in guiding the team through tough situations.
Rachin Ravindra has quickly made a mark in international cricket with his versatility as both a batter and bowler. In 9 Test matches, he has accumulated 672 runs, including a double century, a century and three fifties, along with taking 10 wickets.
Ravindra’s all-round abilities provide crucial balance to the New Zealand side, particularly in subcontinental conditions where his left-arm spin can be valuable. His skill in playing spin will also play a key role in tackling India’s spinners throughout the series.
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Daryl Mitchell has been a key performer for New Zealand, consistently contributing with the bat in the middle order. Over 25 Test matches, he has scored 1,687 runs at an impressive average of 46.9, including 5 centuries and 11 fifties.
Mitchell’s ability to counterattack and play long innings will be essential, especially when New Zealand requires stability or quick runs in crucial moments. His habit of thriving under pressure makes him a vital player in keeping the team competitive throughout the series.
Ajaz Patel will be New Zealand’s primary spinner for this series, especially after his remarkable 10-wicket haul against India in a single innings. In 18 Test matches, he has claimed 70 wickets, proving his ability to perform in tough conditions.
Patel’s experience playing in India and his skill in delivering long, economical spells will be vital in containing India’s powerful batting lineup. His precision and ability to extract turn, even from mildly supportive pitches, will be crucial to New Zealand’s hopes of success.
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William O’Rourke is an emerging talent in New Zealand’s pace attack, prepared to take on more responsibility in the absence of key senior bowlers. Having taken 19 wickets in just 4 Test matches, he has already demonstrated his potential as a strike bowler.
His ability to produce pace and bounce will be essential in Indian conditions, where fast bowlers often encounter difficulties. O’Rourke’s performance could be crucial in helping New Zealand stay competitive throughout the series.
