New Zealand pacer Tim Southee feels India are a “powerhouse” in their own backyard and the travelling Black Caps will need to adapt quickly to the country’s spin-friendly conditions to have any hope of upsetting the hosts in the upcoming two-Test series.
This will be the first meeting between the two teams in Test cricket since the World Test Championship final in June, which India lost. New Zealand had suffered a 0-3 humiliation against India in their last tour in 2016.
The first Test of the upcoming tour will be played in Kanpur from November 25 to 29 followed by a match in Mumbai from December 3 to 7. The Test matches will be preceded by three T20Is to be played in Jaipur (November 17), Ranchi (November 19) and Calcutta (November 21).
“It’s been a long time since we played India in India...they are a powerhouse in their own conditions. Such foreign conditions we are not used to, so we need to adapt to the conditions as quick as possible,” Southee said after New Zealand announced a 16-member squad for the tour.
New Zealand on Thursday announced the squad, leaving out left-arm pacer Trent Boult and all-rounder Colin de Grandhomme who have spent a considerable amount of time in bio-secure bubbles and managed isolation.
Southee said the inaugural WTC crown is a thing of the past now as a new Test cycle begins with the India tour.
“The new cycle is exciting. A great place to go on tour and test yourself against a very good opposition and in trying conditions. It’s great to be part of the last cycle. We hit the reset button and looking forward to the next two-year cycle.
“There is something special about Test cricket. It’s incredible to be part of the Test side. Over the last number of years the success we had not only at home but overseas has been incredible to be a part of,” he said.
“Test cricket is something I absolutely love and any chance to get to play is a special moment. Representing your country at the highest level is truly an honour.”