India and New Zealand Set to Clash in First Test
India and New Zealand are set to face off in the first Test of a three-match series, starting on Wednesday, October 16, at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. After a successful 2-0 Test series victory against Bangladesh last month, India is looking to continue their momentum. The hosts currently sit at the top of the World Test Championship points table, boasting 98 points and a PCT of 74.24, and they are eager to maintain this form ahead of their upcoming tour of Australia for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
The Indian team has announced a 15-member squad for the series, making just one change from the previous series against Bangladesh. Pacer Yash Dayal, who was part of the earlier squad, has been left out of this tour. Under the leadership of Rohit Sharma, the team is filled with confidence and aims to deliver another impressive performance as they take on New Zealand. This series marks India’s last home fixture before heading off to face Australia, making it a crucial outing for the team.
Conversely, New Zealand is arriving in India following a disappointing 2-0 series defeat against Sri Lanka. The Kiwis have struggled in Test cricket throughout 2024, managing to win only two out of their seven matches. Their recent tour to India included a one-off Test match against Afghanistan, which was abandoned without a ball being bowled due to incessant rain. This lack of competitive cricket adds further pressure as they prepare to face a strong Indian side.
In addition to their recent form, New Zealand’s squad has been hit by injuries leading up to the series. Star batter Kane Williamson will miss the first Test due to a groin strain suffered during the Sri Lanka series, with uncapped left-hander Mark Chapman called up as cover. Compounding their woes, pacer Ben Sears has been ruled out of the entire series due to a knee injury, prompting the management to announce Jacob Duffy as his replacement.
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Weather Forecast and Pitch Conditions
The iconic M Chinnaswamy Stadium is preparing to host its first Test since 2022, with the last encounter between India and New Zealand at this venue taking place in 2012, a match India won by five wickets. However, the opening day of the Test could be affected by rain, as heavy showers were reported in Bengaluru on the day before the match. While rain may disrupt play on Day 1, forecasts suggest that conditions will improve as the game progresses.
The weather is expected to remain overcast for the duration of the Test, which could lead to bad light interruptions on several days. The use of floodlights after tea will likely become necessary, especially if cloud cover persists. Batting first is typically advantageous on the Bengaluru pitch, known for its favorable batting conditions. However, bowlers may also find assistance, as the overcast skies could offer some early swing for the pacers.
