Rain Delays Start of India-New Zealand First Test in Bengaluru

AFP

Bengaluru: The toss for the first Test between India and New Zealand was delayed due to rain on Wednesday, with heavy showers forcing ground staff to keep the pitch covered ahead of the scheduled 9:30 AM (0400 GMT) start time.

Weather disruptions are expected to continue over the first two days of the match, as rain is forecast to interrupt play. Preparations for the three-match Test series opener were also hampered by rain, with both teams canceling their training sessions on Tuesday.

Rohit Sharma’s India, coming off a 2-0 series win against Bangladesh, are the strong favorites at home. Meanwhile, New Zealand faces a challenge, with star batsman Kane Williamson sidelined due to injury for at least the first Test.

The Kiwis are also looking to recover from their 2-0 series defeat in Sri Lanka last month, which led to Tim Southee stepping down as captain. Tom Latham will lead New Zealand for the first time as full-time captain.

The second Test will take place in Pune on October 24, followed by the third Test in Mumbai on November 1.