New Zealand build pace depth ahead of India Tests
After beating India 3-0 in the recently-concluded ODIs, the New Zealand cricket team is raring to have a crack in the upcoming Test series. New Zealand and India gear up for two Tests, starting February 21. One crucial factor for the hosts is that of pacers Trent Boult and Lockie Ferguson leading their recoveries. Here's more.
Left-arm pacer Boult suffered a fracture to the second-metacarpal of his right hand while batting on Day 3 in the 2nd Test. He was ruled out of the subsequent Tests. He missed the five-match T20I series and the ODIs that followed against India. Meanwhile, Ferguson bowled just 11 overs in his Test debut in the first match in Perth before suffering a calf strain.
New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson provided an update on the two bowlers. "They're tracking nicely," Williamson said after his side sealed a five-wicket win in the 3rd ODI against India at Bay Oval in Mt. Maunganui. "It's an exciting opportunity ... against one of the best sides in the world," he added.
Boult and Ferguson will be raring to have a crack against the Indians. With conditions assisting swing and seam, NZ are expected to cause issues aplenty for the visitors. Neil Wagner, who has been in devastating form in Tests, will lead the attack. Matt Henry is eyeing a return from a thumb injury. Hamish Bennett, who excelled in the ODIs, is also in fray.
"All those guys are developing nicely in returning to full fitness and we're going to be really confident going up against a good team," stand-in Black Caps coach Shane Jurgensen said.
