The white-ball series between New Zealand and India are done and dusted and it is time for the pristine form of the game. India had whitewashed New Zealand in the T20I series whereas the hosts bounced back to take their revenge in the T20I series. Meanwhile, the Test matches are going to be a different ball game altogether.
India had lost the Test series against New Zealand when they had toured back in 2014. The Virat Kohli-led side is currently the number one Test side in the world and they would aim to prove their supremacy in the alienate conditions. India had a successful home season and they would aim to replicate the same in New Zealand.
India will be confident.
The Indian team had a successful tour of Australia back in 2018-19 and their fast bowling had done a fine job in that series. Ergo, the onus will be once again on the pace battery to deliver the goods. The visitors have good news that their most experienced pacer Ishant Sharma is ready to play.
On the other hand, New Zealand was hammered recently by Australia with a margin of 3-0. There were some vulnerabilities in the Kiwis’ game and the tourists will like to expose those areas. However, there is no denying the fact that Kane Williamson-led side will be a different unit in their home conditions.
India suffered a huge blow before the ODI series as Rohit Sharma was ruled out. This means Prithvi Shaw and back in form, Mayank Agarwal is likely to open the innings. It is going to be a great test for the tourists and they would like to come out with flying colors.
Match Prediction:
It is going to be an even battle between both sides. As India’s pace battery has taken giant strides, it will be an interesting contest. India should be ready for the short pitch test which will be lead by Neil Wagner. Furthermore, the hosts will feel confident after the addition of Trent Boult to their squad.