March 17, 2009

New Zealand Cricket Team for Test Matches

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Yesterday, we saw the Indian Cricket team selected for the test matches against New Zealand. We also went through the probable line-up for the first test match. Today, I will give you the list of New Zealand team that is selected for the first test match. The New Zealand squad consists of 13 players, led by captain Daniel Vettori. The squad is as follows:

1. Daniel Vettori (Captain)
2. Jesse Ryder
3. Martin Guptill
4. Tim McIntosh
5. Kyle Mills
6. Brendon McCullum (Wicket-keeper)
7. Ross Taylor
8. Brent Arnel
9. James Franklin
10. Jeetan Patel
11. Chris Martin
12. Iain O'Brien
13. Daniel Flynn

In the Twenty20 tournament, New Zealand came victorious. But, that was quickly nullified by the Indian cricketers efforts in the ODI tournament. New Zealand was completely outplayed in the first four one-dayers, including the abandoned ODI. But, New Zealand came back strongly in the final ODI, just in time to keep the interest alive for the Test match series. Will this have an impact on the Test match series?

In my opinion, India still starts as favourites due to their experienced batting line-up. Sehwag and Tendulkar were blazing in the one day matches. If they bring forward some of that form to the test matches, New Zealand will always be chasing the Indians. Ishant Sharma and Zaheer Khan had been exceptional over the past one year or so, particularly in the test match arena. With helpful conditions, they may prosper further.

But, let us not completely discount New Zealand. They have the home advantage. Some of their players like Jesse Ryder, Brendon McCullum and Guptill are in good nick. Their bowlers might not have been executing the plans well, but they have the potential to do well in test match setup.

We are in for a good, gripping contest for the next five days.

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