Wed Oct 16 03:41:19 UTC 2024: ## Rain Delays Toss as India and New Zealand Prepare for First Test
**Bengaluru, October 16:** The first test of the three-match series between India and New Zealand, set to begin at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, has been delayed due to rain. The toss has been pushed back, with the pitch currently covered and under the shadow of inclement weather.
The two teams have announced their squads, with a few notable changes. Shubman Gill’s neck stiffness is a concern for India, potentially disrupting their batting order. If he is unable to play, Sarfaraz Khan could replace him and KL Rahul could move up to number 3.
For New Zealand, Will Young is expected to replace the injured Kane Williamson. The team’s selection of three fast bowlers could leave Mitchell Santner vulnerable, with Matt Henry also vying for a place in the eleven.
The last time New Zealand played in India, they won the series in 1988. The team will be hoping for a similar performance, particularly after Ajaz Patel’s historic achievement in the previous series, where he became the third bowler in Test history to take all ten wickets in an innings.
While rain has delayed the start, the drainage system at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium is known to be excellent, suggesting that play could begin quickly once the rain stops. Fans eagerly await the start of the match, with updates available on Jansatta.com.
First Piper 