Following the conclusion of the India vs Bangladesh series, the Indian cricket team will face New Zealand for a three-match Test series. However, India may have a more relaxed approach to the upcoming matches as they prepare to take on the Black Caps on home soil. The reason behind this is New Zealand’s recent struggles in sub-continental conditions, particularly in their current Test series against Sri Lanka.
New Zealand’s form has been far from convincing, with a defeat in the first Test against Sri Lanka by 63 runs and an even worse performance in the second Test. Sri Lanka dominated the match with a massive first innings total of 602/5 declared, leaving New Zealand under tremendous pressure. The Kiwis were bowled out for just 88 runs in response, with Sri Lankan leg-spinner Prabhat Jayasurya taking six wickets for 42 runs and causing havoc among the New Zealand batters.
With New Zealand struggling to handle spin in Sri Lanka, India will be looking to take full advantage when they face them on their home turf. The turning tracks and spin-friendly conditions in India are expected to pose significant challenges for the Kiwis. This will provide an opportunity for Indian spinners to showcase their talent, making the series potentially easier for Rohit Sharma and his team.
As World Test Championship (WTC) points will be on the line, India will still need to perform well, but given New Zealand’s recent issues with playing in the sub-continent, the hosts are expected to have an upper hand in the upcoming Test series.