Rain has delayed the start of the first Test between India and New Zealand at Chinnaswamy Stadium. Despite the covers being on, Team India players and staff, including Virat Kohli, were seen assessing the conditions. For Kohli, it’s a return to familiar ground, as he plays IPL cricket here for Royal Challengers Bangalore.
Jaiswal and Nayar head for practice
India’s young sensation Yashasvi Jaiswal, a key performer in the ongoing WTC cycle, along with coach Abhishek Nayar, returned to the indoor nets for practice. Spin duo Kuldeep Yadav and Ravichandran Ashwin also joined them. Kuldeep could be considered for the playing XI.
All eyes on Ashwin
All-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin continues to shine, showcasing his brilliance in India’s recent Test against Bangladesh, where he scored 113 runs and took six wickets in the second innings. His performance earned him the Player of the Series award.
New Zealand eye redemption
After a 0-2 loss against Sri Lanka, New Zealand seeks to bounce back against India. Under the captaincy of veteran pacer Tim Southee, the Kiwis face a tough challenge as they take on the formidable Indian side.