NZ vs IND: Trent Boult returns for India Test series
What's the story
Fast bowler Trent Bowler has been named in New Zealand's 13-member squad for the upcoming Test series against India. The left arm seamer has been out of action for quite sometime, owing to an injury he sustained on his right hand during the Boxing Day Test in Australia. He missed the following Test and the white-ball series against India at home. Here's more.
Information
New Zealand's squad for India Test series
Here is the 13-member squad: Kane Williamson (captain), Tom Latham, Tom Blundell, Ross Taylor, Henry Nicholls, BJ Watling, Colin de Grandhomme, Tim Southee, Neil Wagner, Trent Boult, Ajaz Patel, Kyle Jamieson, Daryl Mitchell.
New Zealand team
Kyle Jamieson likely to make his Test debut
Kyle Jamieson has also received his maiden Test call-up after putting up an impressive show in the ODI series against India. The 25-year-old will join the likes of Boult, Tim Southee and Neil Wagner to make it a four-pronged pace attack. "Kyle will offer us a point of difference with the bounce he could extract," New Zealand coach John Stead said.
Team India
Ishant Sharma declared fit for Tests
Talking about Indian camp, Ishant Sharma confirmed his availability for the Test series after clearing the fitness exam. This comes as a massive boost for the Virat Kohli-led India. The fast bowler had sustained an injury during a Ranji Trophy game. Besides, the Indian middle-order looked in great touch in the tour game against New Zealand XI ahead of the first Test in Wellington.
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India's probable XI for first Test
Mayank Agarwal, Prithvi Shaw, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (C), Ajinkya Rahane, Hanuma Vihari, Wriddhiman Saha (WK), Ravindra Jadeja, Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah
Records
India haven't won a Test against New Zealand since 2009
In 23 Tests played in New Zealand, India have won five and lost eight, while they have drawn 10. India last won a Test against New Zealand away from home in 2009 under MS Dhoni, their only Test victory over the Kiwis since 1976. Notably, India drew the last Test which they played in New Zealand. Kohli's team would want to continue their dominance.
Information
India to play first Test against Kiwis from February 21
The first Test between New Zealand and India would start from February 21. It is a part of two-match Test series. Before this, India won T20I series 5-0 but lost all the three ODIs. Fans can catch the live action on Hotstar.