Tom Latham banks on NZ seamers amid 'unexpectedly' rainy Bengaluru weather

Tom Latham said that the New Zealand team would bank on their seamers to exploit the 'unexpected' rainy and overcast conditions in Bengaluru vs the Indian team. India will host New Zealand for a three-match Test series, starting October 16.

In Short

• India to host New Zealand for a three-match Test series
• The 1st Test will take place at M Chinnaswamy Stadium
• Rain threat looms large during the five days of the contest

New Zealand captain Tom Latham is all set to embark on his leadership journey with the three-match Test series against India. Tim Southee stepped down from his role as New Zealand Test captain after the 0-2 series loss vs Sri Lanka and Latham will lead the Kiwis for the all-important series in India. He admitted that he didn't expect such cool weather conditions in India and would bank on the seamers for the 1st Test in Bengaluru. Heavy rains are expected throughout the course of the 1st Test.

"Yes, we did not expect this type of weather and not being hot as we expected here so that potentially brings the fast bowlers into play, and we will look at the previous game that was played here. It is hard to say at the moment," Latham said in the pre-series press conference. With overcast conditions on offer, Latham highlighted the need to exploit the conditions, which might favour the fast bowlers.

Will Tim Southee play 1st Test?

Latham recalled Tim Southee's seven-wicket haul the last time New Zealand played a Test match in Bengaluru in 2012. He said that Southee could be given a go with Ben Sears ruled out of the series due to a knee injury.

“Absolutely. I think last time they played a Test here, Tim took 7 for 60. Obviously, Ben Sears has been ruled out, so I guess if we do end up going with the three seamers, then obviously Tim will come right into the equation.”

Southee boasts a handy record in India with 20 wickets at 28.70, including his career-best 7 for 64 in Bengaluru 12 years ago. However, his place in the time was under scrutiny amid his ongoing form.

Latham hails Indian team's depth

Latham also hailed the depth of the Indian bowling line-up with plenty of options in both the pace and spin bowling departments.

“You obviously look at the spinners when you come over these conditions. But they've got an equally good seam attack in Bumrah, Siraj, Akash Deep, who's played the last couple of Tests against Bangladesh. So just a well-rounded side,” Latham added.