Wed Oct 16 01:25:02 UTC 2024: ## Rain Threatens to Derail India-New Zealand Test in Bengaluru
**Bengaluru, India** – The much-anticipated first Test between India and New Zealand in Bengaluru is under a cloud of uncertainty as heavy rain continues to plague the city. While the M Chinnaswamy Stadium boasts a state-of-the-art drainage system, the local weather forecast predicts rain for the first three days of the match, potentially disrupting play and forcing the groundstaff to work tirelessly.
The hosts, India, are coming off a 2-0 series victory against Bangladesh and currently top the World Test Championship standings. New Zealand, on the other hand, suffered a 2-0 loss in Sri Lanka and are currently in sixth place. Adding to their woes, the Kiwis have lost pacer Ben Sears to a knee injury and have called up uncapped bowler Jacob Duffy as a replacement.
Despite the downpour, the teams were unable to train at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium on Tuesday. The weather situation has dominated the build-up to the match, leaving fans hoping for a dry spell to allow the series to get underway.
The series, which marks the start of the World Test Championship 2023-25 cycle for India, promises to be a fierce battle. However, with the rain forecast, the first test could turn into a test of endurance for both teams and the ground staff.
First Piper 