The series between India and New Zealand has been a tug of war between the two sides with both of them trying hard to get the ball in their court. After witnessing 2 whitewashes, the series charm slowed down a bit following the 10-day gap. But now, as the teams once again gear up to lock horns with each other during the 1st match of the 2-game Tests series, the excitement comes back roaring.
The T20Is were the ruling land for visitors who whitewashed the Blackcaps 5-0 to clinch their maiden T20I victory in and against New Zealand. However, the amazement was short-lived as the hosts managed to avenge their defeat in the ODIs, defeating the Men in Blue 3-0. Now, the upcoming Test series will be eyed upon as a matter of exerting their dominance in the tournament.
Match Details
Date: 21st February 2020
Time: 4:00 AM IST
Venue: Basin Reserve in Wellington
Where to Watch: Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports 1 Hindi and Star Sports 1 HD Hindi
Pitch Report & Weather Conditions
The pitch at Wellington is known as a good batting pitch alongside its nature of providing assistance to the pacers. The first two days will be great for batting while spinners have hard-time bowling here. The team winning the toss is expected to bat first.
Talking about the weather of Wellington, it is expected to remain cloudy during the first three days of the game. However, the temperature will be around 19-23 degrees Celsius during the game-days.
Team News
New Zealand
The New Zealand authorities have decided to ditch one of their most successful pacers, Mitchell Santner for the upcoming series. Moreover, Matt henry has been recalled to the squad in place of Neil Wagner, who is expecting the birth of his first child.
Probable Playing XI
Tom Latham, Tom Blundell, Kane Williamson (C), Ross Taylor, Henry Nicholls, BJ Watling (WK), Colin de Grandhomme, Tim Southee, Kyle Jamieson, Trent Boult, Ajaz Patel.
India
For the visitors, there are no major changes announced except for the addition of Ishant Sharma. Mayank Agarwal and Prithvi Shaw are expected to open for the team, pushing Cheteshwar Pujara to number 3.
Probable Playing XI
Prithvi Shaw, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (C), Ajinkya Rahane, Hanuma Vihari, Wriddhiman Saha(WK), Ravindra Jadeja, Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah.
Key Players
New Zealand
Ross Taylor
Kane Williamson
India
Virat Kohli
Cheteshwar Pujara
Head-to-head
Total: 57
New Zealand: 10
India: 21
Draw: 26
