The Test series between India and New Zealand, set to begin on October 16, 2024, at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. The games expect to be thrilling. As part of the ongoing World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, both teams will eyei crucial points in this three-match series. India, led by Rohit Sharma, come into this series confidently, with a formidable home record. New Zealand, despite grappling with injuries and inconsistent performances on foreign soil, is renowned for their resilient cricket. They will definitely look to pull off the previous upset in India.
Match Preview
India has been a dominant force in Test cricket, especially on home soil. In the last decade, they have established an unparalleled reputation, winning series after series in their backyard.
The last time they played a home series against Bangladesh, they secured a 2-0 victory. Captain Rohit Sharma will aim to build on that momentum to strengthen India’s position in the WTC standings.
This series will be key in India’s batting order, filled with experience and firepower. Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and the returning Rishabh Pant provide flair and stability. Moreover, the young and talented duo of Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal has been in brilliant form. Both have performed exceptionally well at the top of the order, and their runs will be crucial to setting up strong totals for India.
On the bowling front, the Indian spin duo of Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin is expected to cause trouble for New Zealand’. With Bengaluru’s pitch likely to turn as the match progresses, Jadeja’s accuracy and Ashwin’s variety will be challenging for the Kiwis to handle.
New Zealand’s Struggles and Injury Concerns
While India are confident, New Zealand enter the series with a cautious outlook. Their recent Test series loss against Sri Lanka highlighted some weaknesses, particularly in their bowling attack. To add to their woes, injuries to key players have disrupted their squad.
The absence of Trent Boult, their star pacer, is a blow. Boult has been instrumental in leading his team’s attack. Without him, the Kiwis will be looking to Tim Southee to step up and lead the pace battery. Southee’s experience will be vital. Yet, he will need support from the squad, particularly in the absence of Boult’s lethal left-arm swing.
On the batting front, New Zealand’s star batsman and regular captain, Kane Williamson, remains sidelined due to an injury. In his absence, Tom Latham, who is standing in as captain, will guide New Zealand’s batting line-up. Latham has a solid record in subcontinental conditions and will be vital in anchoring the innings for the Kiwis. Yet, consistently challenging India’s potent bowling attack will take more than individual brilliance.
Key Players to Watch
Rohit Sharma (India)
As India’s captain, Rohit Sharma will be under pressure to deliver. His performances in home Tests are crucial to India’s success. Rohit can play long, steady innings at the top. He is also known for dominating opposition spinners. His form in this series will set the tone for India’s innings, especially given the threat New Zealand’s bowlers might pose early on with the new ball.
Ravindra Jadeja (India)
India’s all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja is often the deciding factor in home Tests. His pinpoint accuracy with the ball, especially on turning tracks, makes him a threat. His ability to contribute valuable runs down the order could make all the difference if India finds itself in trouble. Jadeja’s performance on the spin-friendly Bengaluru pitch will be key to India’s chances.
Tom Latham (New Zealand)
With Kane Williamson absent, Tom Latham must shoulder much of New Zealand’s batting responsibility. Latham has proven himself to be a reliable opener in tough conditions. He must be at his best to counter India’s spin duo and provide New Zealand’s foundation to post competitive totals. His ability to absorb pressure and build long innings will be vital for the visitors.
Daryl Mitchell (New Zealand)
Daryl Mitchell has emerged as one of New Zealand’s standout players. As an all-rounder, Mitchell’s contributions with both bat and ball will be pivotal in this series. His ability to handle spin and his knack for picking up timely wickets with his medium pace could be game-changing for New Zealand, especially in India’s conditions.
Pitch Report and Weather Conditions
The M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru offers balanced pitches, particularly in Test matches. The first few days are generally favorable for the batters, with good carry and pace. As the game progresses, spinners are expected to dominate proceedings. Traditionally, spinners come into play from the third day onwards, making the last two days challenging for any team batting second.
With overcast conditions predicted for the first few days, the fast bowlers could find assistance early on, particularly with swing. Once the sun breaks through, the pitch will likely dry out, bringing the spinners into the game.
The weather forecast suggests a mix of sun and clouds, with the possibility of rain interruptions during the game. These interruptions affect the match flow and may give New Zealand’s bowlers some respite in the middle of intense sessions. The temperature is expected to remain between 25°C and 30°C. High humidity levels pose extra physical challenges to the players.
Match Prediction
Heading into the first Test, India is the clear favourite. Their dominance at home, combined with New Zealand’s injury concerns, gives them an edge. India’s spinners, particularly Jadeja and Ashwin, will likely thrive on the turning Bengaluru track, making it hard for New Zealand’s batters to settle.
While New Zealand has a history of playing tough, gritty cricket, their recent struggles in the subcontinent and the absence of key players could leave them vulnerable. If their spinners, especially Ajaz Patel, can exploit the conditions, they may have an outside chance of putting pressure on India.
Yet, considering all factors, India is expected to win the first Test comfortably. Their batting line-up appears more solid, and their spinners are in prime form, setting them up for a strong start to the series.
