New Zealand’s new captain Tom Latham said on Tuesday he expected pace bowlers to play a crucial role in what was likely to be a rain-interrupted opening match of the three-Test India series.
Heavy rain hampered the final preparations for both teams on the eve of the contest. More showers are predicted throughout the week in which the Black Caps will aim to stop a rampant India from continuing their winning run at home.
“I certainly wasn’t expecting the weather that we’ve had over the last couple of days since arriving here. Looking at the forecast, it obviously … looks similar to what we’ve got today,” Latham told reporters as rain poured down.
“Obviously the wicket being under the covers for a longer duration and it not necessarily being as hot as what we would usually expect here, I guess that potentially brings the fast bowlers into play.
“We took a look at the previous game that was played here a month ago (in the domestic league) and I think the seamers took a lot of wickets. Again, it’s hard to say, because we haven’t really had a look at the wicket in terms of a team we play.”
Latham took over as permanent Test captain from Tim Southee this month following a 2-0 defeat in Sri Lanka and is looking to help the team win their first match against India since 1988.
The hosts have not lost a series on home soil since 2012, adding to the difficult challenge in front of Latham and his team, but the skipper said they were raring to go.
“Every game that we come out to play, we want to win. The World Test Championship has produced cricket where teams are looking for results in terms of where they sit on the ladder,” said Latham, whose side sit sixth.
“We’ll certainly be no different. We’ll be looking to win as much as we can. The situation will dictate the way we play and we’re going to try to win.”
The presence of a host of experienced batters and bowlers, Latham said, makes India a formidable opponent.
“You obviously look at the spinners when you come over these conditions. But they’ve got an equally good seam attack in Bumrah, Siraj, Akash Deep, who’s played the last couple of Tests against Bangladesh. So just a well-rounded side,” Latham said in the pre-match press meet here on Tuesday.
“From a batting point of view. You have a lot of match winners who can take a game away from you pretty quickly.
“We’re looking forward to the challenge. Hopefully, we can lean back on the experiences that we’ve had here the last couple of times that we’ve toured,” he added.
In that context, Tom Latham said the Kiwis will miss the presence of former captain Kane Williamson, who has been ruled out of the early part of this tour owing to a groin injury.
“It’s disappointing not to have Kane here. Fingers crossed he’ll be ready as soon as possible. I think Youngie (Will Young) will play. He’ll bat at three. He’s batted all over the order. I guess it’s his opportunity to put his hand up.
“Yeah, obviously, disappointing when you miss a senior guy like Kane, but it gives opportunities for other guys to put their hand up,” he said.
Cricket fans in New Zealand are eagerly awaiting what could be a historic moment. Since 1988, New Zealand has been chasing a rare victory against India in Test cricket on Indian soil. With Tom Latham leading the side, there is a renewed sense of hope for Kiwi fans. But can Tom Latham and his team break the 36-year drought? Let’s dive deep into the journey, challenges, and strategies that could lead New Zealand to a win in India.
The Long Wait: NZ’s Struggles Against India
New Zealand’s last Test victory against India in India came in 1988, a distant memory for most fans today. Since then, India’s home dominance has been a stumbling block for visiting teams, including the Kiwis. Over the past 30 years, New Zealand has faced numerous challenges in Indian conditions, ranging from spin-friendly pitches to the scorching weather.
India, with its world-class bowling attack and a resilient batting lineup, has proved to be a tough competitor for New Zealand. While the Kiwis have managed some draws, they’ve largely come up short in clinching a win.
Tom Latham: The Hope of New Zealand
Enter Tom Latham, the calm and composed captain leading the charge. Latham has been an integral part of New Zealand’s cricketing fabric, known for his consistency as an opening batsman and his leadership skills.
Taking over the reins from Kane Williamson, Tom Latham has a calm demeanor and tactical insight, qualities that make him a capable leader. His experience in Test cricket, particularly against tough opponents, brings hope to a New Zealand side eager to change the course of history.
Challenges New Zealand Faces in India
When it comes to Test cricket in India, the conditions often overwhelm visiting teams. Indian pitches, particularly in venues like Chennai and Mumbai, are infamous for turning into spin havens after a few days. For New Zealand, who are more accustomed to seaming conditions back home, this presents a massive challenge.
Besides the pitches, the 2024 Indian team is filled with superstars. Players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and R. Ashwin bring unmatched experience and skill, making it an uphill task for any team, especially one that hasn’t won in India for decades.
India’s Strength in Test Cricket
India’s dominance in Test cricket, especially at home, has been undeniable. Their batting lineup, led by the experienced duo of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, offers solid resistance. Kohli, known for his ability to take on world-class bowlers, will be a major obstacle for New Zealand.
On the bowling side, India boasts some of the best spinners in world cricket. R. Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja have a remarkable record at home, often strangling opposition batsmen on turning tracks.
Tom Latham Strategy: How Can NZ Win?
For New Zealand to pull off a victory, Tom Latham will need a well-rounded strategy. First and foremost, their batting lineup must stand firm against India’s bowlers. Tom Latham, alongside experienced players like Kane Williamson, will need to lead from the front.
On the bowling front, New Zealand’s seamers might not get as much assistance from the pitches. Therefore, their spinners must step up. Players like Ajaz Patel and Ish Sodhi could play crucial roles in restricting India’s powerful batting lineup.
The Importance of Spinners in Indian Conditions
One of the main reasons visiting teams struggle in India is the dominance of spin bowling. Indian pitches tend to favor spin, especially as the Test progresses. While New Zealand’s fast bowlers, such as Trent Boult, might find some movement early on, it’s the spinners who will be key.
Historically, New Zealand has relied on its pace bowlers. However, for this series, Tom Latham and the coaching staff will need to focus on nurturing their spinners, as they will be the difference-makers on these slow and turning tracks.
Player Matchups: India vs. New Zealand
This Test series will be filled with thrilling player matchups. One to watch out for is the contest between Indian batsmen and New Zealand’s bowlers. Trent Boult will challenge Rohit Sharma with the new ball, while spinners like Ajaz Patel will be tasked with keeping Kohli quiet.
On the other hand, India’s spinners, Ashwin and Jadeja, will be eyeing the wickets of Tom Latham and Williamson, knowing that breaking their partnership could severely impact New Zealand’s chances.
Weather and Pitch Factors
Indian conditions can be unpredictable. While pitches are known for their tendency to turn, the weather plays a significant role as well. Day-time heat can be intense, making it challenging for players to endure long sessions. The key will be to pace the innings and make full use of early morning conditions.
The Role of Mental Strength in Winning a Test Series
Test cricket is as much a mental game as it is a physical one. Tom Latham leadership will be tested, as he will need to keep his team motivated and focused. The mental toughness required to endure the harsh conditions in India can’t be overstated.
How Can New Zealand Break the 36-Year Drought?
Ultimately, New Zealand needs a perfect balance of strategy, skill, and mental toughness to pull off a win in India. With Tom Latham leading the charge, the Kiwis have a chance to rewrite history.
Conclusion
Tom Latham New Zealand side faces a monumental task as they look to win their first Test match against India in over three decades. The challenges are plenty, but with the right combination of leadership, strategy, and adaptability, the Kiwis could turn their long-standing dream into reality.
