New Zealand vs India– 1st T20 International Preview & Prediction
THE FACTS
When is New Zealand vs India taking place? Friday, November 18th, 2022 – 06:30 (UK)
Where is New Zealand vs India taking place? Sky Stadium, Wellington
What is the expected weather for New Zealand vs India? 16-17c with a chance of light rain showers throughout and a gentle breeze
What channel is New Zealand vs India on? The match will be televised live on BT Sport in the UK
Where can I stream New Zealand vs India? BT Sport subscribers will be able to stream the match live via the BT Sport website and app
LAST MEETING
India beat New Zealand by 73 runs
THE LOWDOWN
NEW ZEALAND
- New Zealand’s last home T20 series saw them beaten by Pakistan in a tri-series that also included Bangladesh and since then they finished as semi-finalists at the 2022 T20 World Cup after losing once again to Pakistan.
- After refusing a central contract, left-arm fast bowler Trent Boult will not feature for the Black Caps across the series with fellow pacer Adam Milne the most realistic option to replace him.
INDIA
- Hardik Pandya takes charge of India for this game with regular captain Rohit Sharma, alongside batters Virat Kohli, KL Rahul and spin-bowler Ravichandran Ashwin all rested following the 2022 T20 World Cup
- Leg-spin bowler Yuzvendra Chahal will be hoping for an opportunity to play here, whilst Ishan Kishan is expected to open the batting with Shubman Gill, although wicket-keeper Rishabh Pant could prove a wildcard pick to open.
THE PREDICTION
Whilst New Zealand are likely to miss the services of Boult, such is his class with the ball in T20 cricket taking wickets in the powerplay, the Black Caps will have prepared accordingly for his departure and are well stacked in the bowling department. India however, will field a far more significantly changed team which could have an adverse effect on their all-round performance. Therefore, New Zealand with home advantage in their favour and worth backing to gain victory in this opening contest.
