As cricket fans gear up for the highly anticipated IND vs NZ 1st Test, the buzz around Dream11 predictions is in full swing. India will face New Zealand in the first match of the three-match Test series from October 16, 2024, at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru. Both teams are eager to grab vital World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 points, making this an exciting clash.
In this blog, we delve into the key match details, probable playing XIs, pitch report, and fantasy cricket tips to help you make the best Dream11 team selection for this much-anticipated contest.
India vs New Zealand, 1st Test Match Details
- Match: India vs New Zealand, 1st Test
- Date: October 16-20, 2024
- Time: 9:30 AM IST
- Venue: M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru
- Live Streaming: Sports18 Network, Colors Cineplex TV, Jio Cinema App & Website
WTC 2023-25 Standings Overview
India has been in stellar form throughout the World Test Championship, currently sitting comfortably at the top of the table. With 8 wins in 11 matches, India has amassed 98 points and an impressive PCT of 74.24. In contrast, New Zealand has had a challenging campaign, standing at 6th place with 3 wins from 8 matches and a PCT of 37.50. This puts the pressure on New Zealand to secure a win and climb higher in the rankings.
Head-to-Head Record in Tests
- Total Matches Played: 62
- India Won: 22
- New Zealand Won: 13
- Draws: 27
India has a clear edge over New Zealand, especially in home conditions. The last time these two teams faced off in a Test series in India, the hosts emerged victorious, maintaining their unbeaten Test series run at home since 2012. This dominance is expected to continue in the upcoming series, particularly with India’s squad brimming with talent.
Pitch Report: M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru
The pitch at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium is traditionally known for being batting-friendly, offering good bounce and carry. However, as the match progresses, spinners tend to come into play, exploiting the turn and bounce. The first innings average score here is 340, indicating a solid start for batsmen before the spinners take control.
Fast bowlers can expect assistance from the pitch during the initial overs, but spinners will dominate as the Test unfolds. Players like Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin are expected to play crucial roles, while New Zealand’s Ajaz Patel might also find conditions favourable for his left-arm spin.
Probable Playing XI for India and New Zealand
India:
- Rohit Sharma (C)
- Yashasvi Jaiswal
- Shubman Gill
- Virat Kohli
- KL Rahul
- Rishabh Pant (WK)
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Ravichandran Ashwin
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Jasprit Bumrah
- Mohammed Siraj
New Zealand:
- Tom Latham (C)
- Devon Conway
- Will Young
- Rachin Ravindra
- Daryl Mitchell
- Tom Blundell (WK)
- Glenn Phillips
- Mitchell Santner
- Tim Southee
- Ajaz Patel
- Matt Henry
Key Fantasy Cricket Tips for IND vs NZ Dream11 Prediction
Wicketkeepers:
Rishabh Pant will be a top pick for the wicketkeeper slot. Known for his aggressive batting style, Pant has the ability to change the course of a match, making him an essential inclusion in your Dream11 team.
Batsmen:
- Rohit Sharma (C) – India’s captain has a solid record in home conditions and is expected to lead from the front with the bat. His form makes him an excellent choice for captaincy.
- Virat Kohli – Backed by a wealth of experience, Kohli will be looking to assert dominance, especially after recent criticisms.
- Yashasvi Jaiswal – Jaiswal’s recent performances have been impressive, and he will likely thrive on Bengaluru’s batting-friendly wicket.
- Devon Conway – For New Zealand, Conway’s ability to adapt to subcontinental conditions will be crucial for his team’s success.
All-rounders:
- Ravindra Jadeja – The MVP for India, Jadeja’s all-round skills with both bat and ball make him a must-have in any fantasy team.
- Rachin Ravindra – A rising star for New Zealand, Ravindra offers a valuable combination of bowling and batting that can contribute significantly in Dream11.
- Mitchell Santner – Santner is another dependable all-rounder who will be key for New Zealand, especially with his accurate left-arm spin.
Bowlers:
- Jasprit Bumrah – India’s spearhead fast bowler, Bumrah is lethal with the new ball and at the death, making him a great pick as vice-captain.
- Mohammed Siraj – Known for his ability to swing the ball and extract bounce, Siraj will be a vital part of India’s bowling attack.
- Ajaz Patel – Patel’s left-arm spin can be highly effective in Indian conditions, especially as the game wears on.
Dream11 Team Captain and Vice-Captain Choices
First Choice:
- Captain: Rohit Sharma
- Vice-Captain: Jasprit Bumrah
Second Choice:
- Captain: Virat Kohli
- Vice-Captain: Yashasvi Jaiswal
Recent Form and Key Matchups
India enters this Test series on the back of a 2-0 series win over Bangladesh at home, showcasing their lethal form. On the other hand, New Zealand is coming off a 2-0 defeat against Sri Lanka, and with key players like Kane Williamson injured and out of the series, they face an uphill battle. Additionally, Tom Latham will captain New Zealand following Tim Southee’s resignation after their recent series loss.
The absence of Williamson is a significant blow for the Kiwis, placing the responsibility on Latham, Conway, and Mitchell to guide their side against an in-form Indian unit.
The IND vs NZ 1st Test promises to be an exciting encounter as both teams battle for World Test Championship points. India will look to continue their dominant run at home, while New Zealand aims to overcome recent struggles and rise in the WTC standings.
As you prepare your Dream11 team, keep an eye on the form of key players like Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, Ravindra Jadeja, and Jasprit Bumrah for India, and Tom Latham, Devon Conway, and Mitchell Santner for New Zealand. Strategic captain and vice-captain choices can make a significant difference in your points tally, so choose wisely!
