India and New Zealand did not take the field on the opening day of the first Test at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru as the toss was also washed out following a persistent downpour.
The rain came down hard and early, leaving India waiting anxiously to get on the field as they look to strengthen their chances for a WTC final spot.
There were several inspections carried out; at one point, the field was soaked by more hailstones and with the weather still so adverse, no play was possible on the first day, not even a single delivery.
This series consisting of three Tests is very important for India in their campaign to qualify for the WTC final.
If India can manage a sweep through the Test series, then their chances of making it to the WTC final will be boosted.
But the rain intervened and what was expected to be a big start for the much-anticipated series was rescheduled to the second day in Bengaluru.
Tom Latham, leading the Kiwis in Williamson’s absence, must rally his tired squad after a challenging series in Sri Lanka.
India’s Star Players and New Zealand’s Possible Injury Mishap
- Rohit Sharma (Captain) and Virat Kohli are under pressure to perform, especially after recent criticism of their form.
- Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill aim to maintain their excellent run of form in the Test arena.
- Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah will lead India’s potent bowling attack.
The Indian team arrives into this serial in form as well as having won their last six Test games on the trot.
Rohit Sharma is leading the bold side,’ which includes both experience and youth.
Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah spearhead the Indian bowling lineup, while youngsters Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill wish to carry forward their excellent form.
Other players under pressure include skipper Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, who have received critique for their form in Test cricket lately.
Certainly, New Zealand is continuing its series without Kane Williamson, who is out injured; Tom Latham has taken over the captaincy role.
This New Zealand side will be coming into this fight after a very tiring series in Sri Lanka and will have to put their best foot forward against a formidable Indian side on home soil.
Weather Woes in Bengaluru
Rain in Bengaluru caused the match to be postponed, and though there was some sunlight in the afternoon, the weather was still not good for a game.
The first session was bathed, and rain continued to fall. As a result, it remains to be seen how much will be played on the second day.
Both teams and fans will be crossing their fingers for better weather, as India will need to set the foundation for this decisive series in order to attempt to qualify for the WTC final.
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References:
IndianExpress.com
HindustanTimes.com