After a humiliating 0-2 loss in Sri Lanka, New Zealand will now face the strong Indian side in a three-match Test series, starting on October 16. The first match of the series will be played at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. The inaugural World Test champions, New Zealand aren't having a great time on the field in recent times. The Black Caps were eliminated from the group stage during the 2024 T20 World Cup. After that, they recently suffered a Test series loss against Sri Lanka after 15 years.
Now, New Zealand has a tough challenge ahead as they will face India in a Test series. The Kiwis last won a Test match in India in 1988 and are yet to defeat India in away Test series. New Zealand will look to end-their 36-year drought by winning the first Test in Bengaluru. However, it won’t be an easy task against the strong Indian side, but New Zealand also has some star players who can shine on Indian pitches.
Why New Zealand can defeat India in first Test?
The first Test between India and New Zealand will be played at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru from October 16 to 20. New Zealand haven’t won a Test series in India for the last 68 years and are yet to win a Test against the hosts since 1988. However, the Kiwis now look to change their fortunes in India. In the following listicle, we will have a look at three major reasons why New Zealand can defeat India in the first Test.
Rachin Ravindra and Daryl Mitchell’s batting in middle-order
Rachin Ravindra and Daryl Mitchell are the two players who can trouble the Indian bowlers in the upcoming Test series. Ravindra had a memorable campaign during the ODI World Cup in India last year and also has a great record in his short Test career for New Zealand. On the other hand, Daryl Mithcell has also been a headache for the Indian bowlers in the past, during the World Cup last year and can play a big knock if gets settled. If Rachin Ravindra and Daryl Mitchell play big knocks in the first Test, New Zealand are likely to have an upper hand against India.
