Tue Oct 15 13:03:15 UTC 2024: ## India Set for a Tough Test Battle Against New Zealand

**Bengaluru, October 15, 2024:** The stage is set for a thrilling test series between India and New Zealand, with the first test commencing on Wednesday, August 16th at the Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

Following their recent Bangladesh series victory, India is expected to field a strong squad with familiar faces. The top order is likely to comprise Rohit Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Shubman Gill, with the key number four spot filled by Virat Kohli. KL Rahul is expected to occupy the crucial number five position.

Behind the stumps, Rishabh Pant will take charge, while the all-rounders, Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin, are confirmed for the playing XI. The pace attack will be led by Jasprit Bumrah, supported by Mohammed Siraj and the promising Akash Deep.

India’s squad for the first test:

* **Rohit Sharma (Captain)**
* **Yashasvi Jaiswal**
* **Shubman Gill**
* **Virat Kohli**
* **KL Rahul**
* **Sarfaraz Khan**
* **Rishabh Pant (Wicketkeeper)**
* **Dhruv Jurel (Wicketkeeper)**
* **Ravindra Jadeja**
* **Ravichandran Ashwin**
* **Axar Patel**
* **Kuldeep Yadav**
* **Jasprit Bumrah**
* **Mohammed Siraj**

The upcoming series will see three test matches:

* **First Test:** October 16-20 at Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru
* **Second Test:** October 24-28 at MCA Stadium, Pune
* **Third Test:** November 1-5 at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai

All eyes are on the two cricketing giants as they prepare to engage in a fierce battle for supremacy.

Read More