Wed Oct 16 03:50:00 UTC 2024: ## Rain washes out first day of India-New Zealand Test in Bengaluru

**Bengaluru, India:** The first Test match between India and New Zealand in Bengaluru has been affected by rain, with the first session washed out and the second session likely to be canceled as well. The weather forecast predicts continued intermittent showers for the next five days.

The match, marking New Zealand’s return to Bengaluru after a 12-year hiatus, was highly anticipated. However, former captain Kane Williamson is missing due to injury.

Despite the rain, the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium pitch is expected to offer a good surface for batting, with assistance for spinners and some early wickets for fast bowlers. India is likely to field three spinners in this match.

The match holds significance for both teams as it is part of the World Test Championship (WTC). A 3-0 series win for India would guarantee their place in the WTC final. However, a draw in the first Test would mean India would need to win matches on their upcoming Australian tour to secure their spot.

**Possible Playing XI:**

**India:** Rohit Sharma (c), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant (wk), KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja, R. Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Akash Deep.

**New Zealand:** Tom Latham (c), Devon Conway, Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Blundell (wk), Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Santner/Michael Bracewell, Tim Southee, Ajaz Patel, William O’Rourke.

The teams are set to face off in the remaining two Tests of the series. The fate of this match remains uncertain, with the hope of a rain-free day and a competitive contest still hanging in the balance.

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