Tue Oct 15 14:03:30 UTC 2024: ## New Zealand’s Latham Ready to Lead in Challenging Test Series Against India
**Bengaluru, India** – New Zealand’s new red-ball captain, Tom Latham, is prepared for the tough task ahead as his team faces India in a two-Test series starting Wednesday at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. The 32-year-old, who previously led the Black Caps on nine occasions, has assumed the full-time captaincy role after Tim Southee’s recent resignation.
Latham is no stranger to leading in India. He captained New Zealand in their last Test series in the country in November 2021, filling in for the injured Kane Williamson. Williamson will miss the first Test again due to a groin injury, leaving a significant gap in the batting lineup.
While acknowledging Williamson’s absence will be felt, Latham sees this as an opportunity for others to step up. “It’s a huge privilege to be in this position, regardless of whether I am captain or not. I am always trying to perform my role as best I can for the team,” said Latham. “It’s not any different being captain. There is a little bit more responsibility.”
Will Young, with 16 Tests under his belt, is set to replace Williamson and is expected to open the innings alongside Latham.
The Kiwis enter the series after a disappointing 0-2 defeat in Sri Lanka, where their batters struggled against spin. However, Latham remains optimistic, focusing on the positives. “The results weren’t ideal in Sri Lanka, but we did a lot of good things,” he said. “The first Test was close, and we changed our approach in the second, except for one poor innings.”
Latham is not looking to force a specific style of play on his team, despite other teams adopting more aggressive batting approaches. “A lot of teams are playing aggressively, but it depends on the conditions. We have different players who play in their own ways, and it’s important to let them express themselves,” he explained.
The weather in Bangalore has disrupted preparation plans, with persistent rain impacting training schedules and hindering pitch assessments. However, the overcast conditions and covered pitch could potentially favor New Zealand’s fast bowlers, a rare advantage in India.
“I wasn’t expecting the weather that we have had over the last couple of days since arriving here,” said Latham. “Looking at the forecast, it looks similar to what we have got today. The wicket being under covers for a long duration and it’s not hot as we expect it to be. That potentially brings the fast bowlers into play.”
New Zealand boasts a formidable pace attack led by experienced campaigners Tim Southee and Matt Henry. William O’Rourke adds youthful energy, while uncapped quick Jacob Duffy has been called into the squad to replace the injured Ben Sears.
Despite the challenges, Latham remains hopeful that his team can compete in conditions that have traditionally been tough for visiting sides. With fast bowlers potentially playing a significant role and a team willing to adapt, Latham’s leadership will be key to New Zealand’s success in India.
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