Bengaluru: In anticipation of the forthcoming three-match Test series against India, the captain of the New Zealand team, Tom Latham, shared his insights on the unexpected weather conditions in Bengaluru.
The series is scheduled to commence with the first Test at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru from October 16 to 20, followed by the second Test in Pune from October 24 to 28, and concluding with the third match in Pune from November 1 to 5.
"We were not prepared for such weather conditions; it appears to be cooler than anticipated, which may lead to the utilization of our fast bowlers. We will analyze the performance of our team in the previous match hosted here, though it is challenging to make definitive conclusions at this stage," Latham stated during the pre-match press conference.
Latham reflected on their previous experience at this venue, recalling a match where Tim Southee delivered exceptional bowling figures, expressing confidence in a similar performance from him in the upcoming matches.
"I remember the last Test we played here, during which Tim took 7 wickets for 60. Given that Ben Sears is unavailable, should we consider a trio of seamers, it is highly likely that Tim will play a crucial role," Latham elaborated.
He also commended India's fast-bowling lineup, highlighting Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Akash Deep as key players.
"Considering the challenging weather conditions, the focus tends to be on spinners. However, India also boasts a formidable pace attack, including Bumrah, Siraj, and Akash Deep, who have demonstrated their effectiveness in recent Tests against Bangladesh," Latham concluded.
Following the completion of the series, Tim Southee announced his resignation from the captaincy position, with Tom Latham assuming the role for the three Tests against India.
New Zealand Squad: Tom Latham (Captain), Tom Blundell (Wicketkeeper-Batter), Michael Bracewell (First Test only), Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, Will O'Rourke, Ajaz Patel, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Ben Sears, Ish Sodhi (Tests 2 and 3 only), Tim Southee, Kane Williamson, Will Young.
