Ravichandran Ashwin was the star of the show as India secured a commanding 197-run victory against a spirited New Zealand side in the first Test at Green Park in Kanpur.
But don’t count the Black Caps out just yet! With solid batting contributions from Tom Latham and Kane Williamson, plus a resilient bowling unit, there’s plenty for coach Mike Hesson to be optimistic about. Now, the teams gear up for the electric atmosphere of Eden Gardens for the second Test. Who will come out on top under the Kolkata sun? Let’s dive in:
India vs New Zealand | 30 September – 4 October | Eden Gardens | Kolkata | India
Match Odds
India 6/10 | Draw 18/10 | New Zealand 9/1
India
India were expected to cruise in the first Test on the turning tracks at Kanpur, and Ravichandran Ashwin lived up to the hype with a phenomenal 10-wicket haul, tallying 10-225 over 66.2 overs. His mastery on Sub-Continent pitches truly sets him apart as one of the world’s finest spinners.
Alongside Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja’s invaluable contribution can’t be overlooked. He grabbed five wickets in the first innings and bowled economically in the second, restricting New Zealand’s scoring opportunities.
Heading into Eden Gardens, the focus will be on how India’s batsmen adapt. Their top order showed resilience, but Anil Kumble and fans alike will keep an eye on Captain Virat Kohli’s form. Kohli struggled in the first Test, scoring 9 and 18 in his innings, and has historically found Eden Gardens challenging with an average of just 9.66 from three innings. This match offers him a golden chance to turn the tide in front of an energetic home crowd.
India’s batting looks solid thanks to dependable performances from KL Rahul, Murali Vijay, and Cheteshwar Pujara, who anchored his side steadily. Meanwhile, the spinning trio has enough firepower to control the game, evident by Amit Mishra not featuring at all in the first Test. At 6/10, backing India seems like a smart call.
New Zealand
Despite the heavy loss, the Black Caps showed they have grit. Luke Ronchi and Mitchell Santner stood firm against India’s spin threat, battling valiantly before succumbing, but their determination gives cause for hope.
The bowling attack also showed promising signs with contributions from Ish Sodhi, Mark Craig, and the seaming pair Trent Boult and Neil Wagner, exploiting limited openings on a spin-friendly pitch.
However, some changes may be on the cards — Martin Guptill’s inconsistent form has been noted, and a break from Test cricket might help him regain confidence.
Match Verdict: Back India at 6/10
India are a formidable force on home soil, proven by their dominant first Test win. Eden Gardens will challenge New Zealand with intense spin, humid conditions, and passionate local support. While rain could influence the outcome, India remains the favourite with the draw a sensible secondary option.
Value Bet: Tom Latham to top score for New Zealand in the first innings at 45/10
Tom Latham impressed with a mature half-century in the first Test, and his growth as a Test batsman makes him an excellent value pick for runs at the top of the order.
Written by Jason Dewey for @Hollywoodbets.
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