“They have been the WTC champion but is it really a good team?” – Aakash Chopra on New Zealand heading into IND vs NZ 2024 Test series

Former Indian Test opener Aakash Chopra questioned New Zealand’s strength while playing in the subcontinental conditions. The Kiwis recently suffered a 2-0 Test series loss against Sri Lanka while playing in the Island country.

Furthermore, New Zealand registered their last Test win on the Indian soil back in 1988. Chopra noted that Kane Williamson’s absence will further weaken the visitors. Williamson has been ruled out of the opening Test as he is still recovering from a groin strain.

“Are New Zealand really a threat? They have been the WTC champion, they defeated us only, but is it really a good team? Kane Williamson is also not available for the first match. He might actually end up missing the second game as well,” Aakash Chopra said on his YouTube Channel.

The renowned commentator added that New Zealand are not such a good team, especially while playing in Asian conditions.

“They are not such a good team. If you see their Asia situation, you will feel it’s very bad. When and how much have they won against India? When the last series happened, they did draw the first match for sure and Ajaz Patel picked up 10 wickets in an innings in the second match, but they are not a team that troubles you a lot,” he observed.

On the other hand, the former Delhi player acknowledged that New Zealand punch above their weight with the ball with bowlers like Ajaz Patel and veteran pacer Tim Southee, who recently quit the Test captaincy.

“They punch above their weight in bowling. They find ways, whether it’s Tim Southee or William O’Rourke. You can expect him (O’Rourke) to trouble batters but he is a fast bowler. In spin, they have Ajaz Patel and Rachin Ravindra bowls a little. Their spin bowling will be defensive and disciplined,” he said.

Chopra expects the Kiwis to come up with a plan and feels the visitors’ bowling battery will look to back themselves against India.

“This team comes with a plan and keeps attached to their processes. When you see them bowl, their exact plan is visible. They rarely deviate. If they have a plan to consistently bowl outside the off-stump, then that’s it. If it’s reversing a little, they will pack the leg side. This team’s specialty is discipline in bowling and absolute commitment to a plan,” Chopra elaborated.

India will take on New Zealand in the opening Test at Bengaluru from October 16 onwards.