IND vs NZ, Test Championship Final: Possible Playing 11 of New Zealand

NZ Playing 11: Riding high on confidence after their series win against England, New Zealand will now mark on their journey to Southampton. They would like to end the drought of ICC trophies by winning this first ever World Test Championship. If they are to do so, they will have to come triumphant against a strong Indian outfit. But knowing New Zealand, they would be eager to go against all the odds and get the job done.

NZ Playing 11

In the build-up to this final, we would be taking a look at their possible playing XI for the final.

Top Order

Tom Latham and Devon Conway are all set to continue at the top for this game as well. Although, Tom Latham didn’t score much to be on board but he looked in good rhythm as the series against England went ahead. His partner though had the whole world to his feet in his first ever test series. After a double ton in his debut innings, he again had a useful contribution in the second test at Edgbaston. Captain Kane Williamson will be their No 3 and he would be eager to correct his record on the English soil.

Middle Order

After looking horribly out of form in the first match, Ross Taylor found his mojo back of sorts in the second game. He would be looking to continue the same against India as well while Henry Nicholls is likely to bat at No 5 position. Wicket-keeper batsman BJ Watling will be playing his last test match and a perfect swansong would be on his mind without a doubt. Colin de Grandhomme is likely to be back for all-rounder’s spot except team management decides to play with five specialist bowlers.

Bowlers

Team management have their tasks cut out in deciding the best bowling combination for the Rose Bowl. Trent Boult and Tim Southee are leaders of the attack and will seal their spots automatically. Kyle Jamieson and Matt Henry provide a strong case if there is something in the pitch to exploit while Neil Wagner can add another dimension to their bowling attack. If the pitch is dry enough for a spinner, Ajaz Patel is the likely option ahead of Mitchell Santner. They will take a call after looking at the surface.