New Zealand is set to face India in a three-match Test series starting on October 16, as part of the ongoing World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle. This series will be a significant challenge for the Blackcaps, especially given their recent form and the hostile conditions they will encounter in India.
New Zealand has a poor track record in India, having never won a Test series there. Their last Test victory on Indian soil dates back to 1988. The team’s struggles were evident in their last visit to India during the 2021-23 WTC cycle, where they lost the two-match series 1-0.
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Current Form and Rankings
India, led by Rohit Sharma, is currently ranked first in the WTC standings with an impressive 74.24 Percentage Points (PCT). In contrast, New Zealand is struggling at sixth place with 37.50 PCT. This disparity highlights the uphill battle New Zealand faces to keep their WTC final hopes alive.
The series has already been marred by setbacks for New Zealand. Star batter Kane Williamson has been ruled out due to a groin injury, leaving a significant void in the top order. Additionally, veteran pacer Tim Southee has stepped down as captain, with Tom Latham taking over the reins. This change comes at a critical time, following New Zealand’s recent 2-0 series defeat to Sri Lanka.
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New Zealand’s Playing XI
Despite these challenges, New Zealand has a strong lineup. Devon Conway and Will Young will open the batting, bringing stability and adaptability to the top order. Tom Latham, now captain, will provide leadership and wicketkeeping skills. Daryl Mitchell and Glenn Phillips offer powerful middle-order batting and handy bowling options.
Rachin Ravindra and Mitchell Santner are key all-rounders, with Ravindra’s left-arm spin and Santner’s controlling middle overs being crucial on Indian pitches. Tim Southee leads the pace attack, while Matt Henry and William O’Rourke provide additional pace options. Ajaz Patel, with his impressive record in subcontinent conditions, will be a vital spinner.
Kane Williamson’s absence is a significant blow, but his potential return during the series could bolster New Zealand’s batting lineup. His technique and experience in handling both pace and spin would be invaluable on Indian pitches.
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Series Schedule
The three-Test series will kick off on October 16 in Bengaluru, followed by the second Test in Pune starting on October 24, and the final Test in Mumbai from November 1. These venues are known for their challenging conditions, which often favor spin bowling.
New Zealand faces a tough task against a strong Indian team on home soil. With key players missing and a new captain at the helm, the Blackcaps will need to dig deep to pose a serious challenge.
