Will India put the Black Caps in a spin?

The Black Caps are bracing for a trial by spin in their two-test series against India but the world champions are excited to face the acid test.

Ravi Ashwin
Photo: PHOTOSPORT

Winning a test series in spin-dominated India, who have not lost a series at home since late 2012, remains one of the most arduous tasks for every team in the sport.

The series between India and New Zealand, starting with the opening match at Kanpur on Thursday, will be the first between the sides since they met in the final of the World Test Championship at Southampton in June.

Captain Kane Williamson’s men won that contest but they have never won a test series let alone a test match since the 1988-89 tour.

“It’s been a while since that final which was a special memory, but we know we’re here against a very strong side and they’re formidable, particularly in their own conditions,” Williamson said.

“I’m sure throughout the series, the spin component will be a definite factor. I’m sure, it’s no different here in Kanpur.”

The touring side have had only two training sessions as a full squad, with their Twenty20 players taking part in a three-match series ahead of the tests. Williamson, who skipped the T20 leg, said they will have to adjust quickly.

“We know the strength of the Indian spin bowlers and they’ve been fantastic for a long period,” Williamson said, adding that they will be looking at different methods and ways to try and score against the spinners.

The hosts will be without captain Virat Kohli, who decided to skip the first test, while openers Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul, wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant and fast bowlers Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami will miss both matches.

Axar Patel
Photo: PHOTOSPORT

A depleted Indian side will, however, not make New Zealand the favourites, according to Williamson.

“One of the big strengths of Indian cricket in any format is the depth and we’ve seen that in a lot of ways over the years,” he added.

“The knowledge of their own conditions is something that is quite unique for touring teams as well. The challenge is a big one and we’re excited to take that on.”

India’s stand-in captain Ajinka Rahane has confirmed that batter Shreyas Iyer will make his test debut at Kanpur.

Rahane said the hosts were yet to finalise their combination for the match but added that the series would be a good opportunity for those coming into the side in the absence of the big names.

Spin bowling will be the deciding factor in the match and the 33-year-old Rahane said it was important for India to maximise their home advantage.

“We are backing our bowlers to take 20 wickets on spin-friendly pitches,” Rahane said.

“At the same time it will be good to bat on. That is a challenge as a batter, to play at the highest level you have to adapt to the situations, conditions and then once you are set try and get a big one.”

-Reuters