India’s upcoming tour of New Zealand will demand a sharp change in approach when the teams move from an extended white-ball schedule to a two-Test series in November. New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner expects India’s new-look red-ball side to face an unfamiliar challenge, particularly players experiencing Test cricket in the country for the first time.
India’s tour will feature five ODIs, five T20Is and two Tests. The ODI leg will bring Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma back into action, with both now retired from T20Is and Tests. Santner described the two former India captains as “masters” of ODI cricket and expects their experience to make the hosts’ task difficult.
New Zealand, however, will prioritise winning the series rather than using the ODIs solely to finalise their World Cup combinations. Santner acknowledged that the matches will help both teams assess their options ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup, but stressed that results remain the immediate priority.
The bigger challenge for India will come once the red-ball leg begins. Santner pointed out that some members of India’s changing Test squad could be playing in New Zealand for the first time, meaning they will have to quickly adapt to conditions that can offer more movement and assistance than they are accustomed to at home.
Despite the changes to India’s Test personnel, Santner believes the visitors retain considerable bowling strength. He highlighted Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna as potential pace options, while Ravindra Jadeja and Manav Suthar could provide spin. India could also opt for a fourth seamer depending on conditions.
For Santner, adaptability will be equally important with the bat. New Zealand conditions can reward attacking cricket at certain stages, but patience could become just as valuable when the ball is moving.
The two Tests will carry significant WTC points for both sides, while New Zealand will head into a demanding stretch of red-ball cricket that continues with four Tests in Australia. For India, the biggest challenge will be adapting quickly to New Zealand conditions, especially for players experiencing Test cricket there for the first time.
