Tom Latham Anticipates Overcast Bengaluru to Boost New Zealand Seamers in First Test Against India

New Zealand's Test captain, Tom Latham, is optimistic that the overcast skies and prolonged pitch cover due to recent rainfall in Bengaluru will favor the fast bowlers, potentially giving the visiting team an edge in the first Test against India.

Latham, who has had an "ideal" tour of Sri Lanka, expressed his thoughts on the eve of the match, stating, "The weather has been unexpected since our arrival, and the forecast suggests similar conditions. The pitch, having been under covers for an extended period and not being as hot as usual, could bring the fast bowlers into play."

He continued, "While I haven't seen the pitch yet, we are prepared for both spin and pace depending on the conditions we encounter tomorrow."

In the current World Test Championship cycle, spin has been a challenge for New Zealand, who suffered a 2-0 loss to Sri Lanka, conceding 37 of their 40 wickets to spinners. Despite the less-than-ideal results, Latham highlighted the team's performance in the first Test in Galle, where they scored 340 and 211, and their resilience with 360 in the second innings of the second Test.

Latham, who has led New Zealand in nine Tests prior, including a previous Test match in India, is embracing his new role as full-time Test captain following Tim Southee's resignation. His personal form in the WTC 2023-25 cycle has been inconsistent, with 368 runs in 16 innings at an average of 23.00. However, he boasts a commendable record in India, with five fifties in as many Tests and an average of 35.70.

As New Zealand has never secured a series win in India, Latham acknowledges the need for exceptional performance but is drawing on the team's past experiences in India and other sub-continent tours to aim for victory in the upcoming three-Test series.

Latham also touched on the team's approach to the game, which contrasts with the aggressive tactics seen globally. He emphasized the importance of allowing players to express themselves and adhere to their natural game plans, saying, "We have different players with unique styles, and our strategy is to let them play to their strengths and stick to their plans."

The New Zealand captain is well aware of the challenge posed by India's balanced attack, which includes both quality spinners and a formidable seam arsenal led by Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Akash Deep. He concluded by expressing his team's excitement and readiness for the challenge ahead, hoping to leverage their past experiences in India to their advantage.