Team India Squad for IDFC First Bank Test Series Against New Zealand

The Men’s Selection Committee has revealed the 15-member Indian squad for the upcoming IDFC First Bank Test series against New Zealand, a three-match series set to take place between October and November 2024. With New Zealand touring India, cricket enthusiasts can look forward to a fiercely contested series, as both teams are known for their top-tier performances in the longest format of the game.

India’s Squad for the Test Series

India has named a balanced squad that combines experience with young talent, all under the leadership of Rohit Sharma.

1. Rohit Sharma (C)
2. Jasprit Bumrah (VC)
3. Yashasvi Jaiswal
4. Shubman Gill
5. Virat Kohli
6. KL Rahul
7. Sarfaraz Khan
8. Rishabh Pant (WK)
9. Dhruv Jurel (WK)
10. Ravichandran Ashwin
11. Ravindra Jadeja
12. Axar Patel
13. Kuldeep Yadav
14. Mohammed Siraj
15. Akash Deep

Travelling Reserves:

1. Harshit Rana
2. Nitish Kumar Reddy
3. Mayank Yadav
4. Prasidh Krishna

India will host New Zealand in three back-to-back Test matches across major cities, each promising intense competition and memorable performances.

Bumrah as vice-captain and leader of the pace attack is highly anticipated. After a prolonged injury layoff, his performance will be crucial in dismantling New Zealand’s batting lineup.The visiting New Zealand side, known for their competitiveness, will not make things easy for India. However, playing in home conditions, the Indian team will be favorites to take the series. Fans across the country are eagerly waiting for what promises to be a thrilling contest.

1. 1st Test: Bengaluru –
   Date: October 16-20, 2024
   Venue: M. Chinnaswamy Stadium
   The series opener in Bengaluru is expected to set the tone, with both teams aiming for an early lead.

2. 2nd Test: Pune –
   Date: October 24-28, 2024
   Venue: Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium
   Pune’s pitch has been known to assist spinners, making it a likely battleground for India's spin trio.

3. 3rd Test: Mumbai –
   Date: November 1-5, 2024
   Venue: Wankhede Stadium
   The final Test will take place at Mumbai's iconic Wankhede Stadium, where India will hope to close out the series with a decisive win.