Test cricket returns to the iconic venue of Kanpur as India prepare for a fine outing against the visiting New Zealand side. New Zealand’s record in India isn’t worth bragging as they are yet to register a series victory in this part of the globe. The last time New Zealand came here, things went southwards for them in simply no time as R. Ashwin strangled the Kiwi batsmen.
This current New Zealand outfit though, is in much better shape than the previous side. They might no longer possess the zeal of Brendon McCullum, but the likes of Kane Williamson and Tom Latham have stepped up massively in the last few years.
For India to do well, it will be imperative to get the perfect playing XI. While several ifs and buts remain, getting the best XI on the day will matter a lot. The form displayed by some individuals during the recently concluded Duleep Trophy will be a key indicator for the team management. Below, we go through the likely playing XI for the first test.