Wed Oct 16 03:50:00 UTC 2024: ## Rain Delays Toss in Ind Vs Nz 1st Test: India Aim for WTC Final Berth
**Bengaluru, India:** The highly anticipated first Test match between India and New Zealand in the three-match series has been delayed due to rain. The toss, initially scheduled for 9 am, has been postponed as heavy showers continue to lash Bengaluru.
The first Test, beginning at 9:30 am, marks the return of Test cricket to the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru after 12 years. The last encounter between the two teams at this venue was in 2012, where India emerged victorious by 5 wickets.
India, boosted by their recent triumphs against Bangladesh in both Test and T20 series, will be looking to secure a series win to solidify their place at the top of the World Test Championship (WTC) points table. A 3-0 victory will guarantee India a spot in the WTC final.
However, the rain may disrupt India’s plans. A drawn first Test would force them to win at least one of the remaining two Tests in the series, scheduled to take place in Mumbai and Indore.
New Zealand, on the other hand, are without their former captain Kane Williamson who is recovering from an injury. This test match presents a crucial opportunity for the Kiwis to test India’s dominance on home soil.
The rain situation continues to be monitored and the organizers are yet to announce the revised schedule for the toss. However, if the rain persists, there is a possibility that the first session of the Test match might be cancelled.
Despite the rain delay, the first Test match promises to be a thrilling encounter. Virat Kohli, who needs 53 runs to reach the milestone of 9000 Test runs, will be a key player to watch for the Indian team.
First Piper 