India eye BIG for New Zealand tour; make THIS pacer ready for Tests
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The New Zealand vs India Tests will be a key part of WTC 2025-27 cycle.
India are set for a busy tour of New Zealand later this year, with the team scheduled to play five T20Is, five ODIs and two Tests. The tour will begin with the T20I series on October 22 before the ODI leg takes place in November.
The two-Test series will be the final part of the tour and will be important for India in the ongoing ICC World Test Championship cycle (WTC). The first Test will be played in Wellington from November 19 to 23, while the second Test will take place in Christchurch from November 27 to December 1.
India have not played a Test in New Zealand since 2019, making the upcoming series another important overseas challenge for the Shubman Gill-led side. With New Zealand conditions often offering help to fast bowlers, India’s pace attack will be one of the main areas to watch.
Reports suggest that Bengal pacer Akash Deep is being considered as an important option for the tour.
India look at another pace option for the New Zealand Tests
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According to a report by Dainik Jagron, Akash Deep is being considered for India’s Test plans against New Zealand. His ability to bowl with pace, hit the deck and maintain control could be useful in conditions where seam and movement can play a role.
Akash Deep has already shown that he can handle overseas conditions. His performances on India’s previous England tour gave the team another option in the fast-bowling department.
The Bengal pacer has been working on getting back to full fitness, especially for the demands of Test cricket. Bowling long spells will be important if he is picked for the New Zealand series.
India could need more than just their premier fast bowlers during the two Tests. With the team also looking to manage the workload of their senior pacers, having another bowler ready could become important.
Akash Deep has already played Test cricket for India and has experience bowling in overseas conditions. His ability to bowl hard lengths could also suit the pitches in New Zealand.
The final squad, however, is yet to be confirmed, so his selection will depend on the team’s plans and his fitness closer to the series.
When will India play the Test series against New Zealand?
The Men in blue will play a two-Test series against New Zealand in November 2026.
When and where will the two Tests be played?
The first Test is scheduled in Wellington from November 19 to 23, while the second Test will be played in Christchurch from November 27 to December 1.
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