After a shocking victory in the first Test against India in Bengaluru, New Zealand captain Tom Latham is optimistic about his team's ability to adapt to the spin-friendly conditions expected in Pune. Latham stresses the importance of quickly adapting to the different conditions and utilizing their spin resources, which include four primary spinners and two part-timers. The NZ captain also acknowledges the need to adjust their strategy based on the changing pitch conditions in Pune.
After rain delayed the start of Day 5, Indian bowler Jasprit Bumrah struck early on to dismiss New Zealand's Tom Latham without adding any runs to their score. Bumrah's sharp delivery struck Latham on the knee roll and the umpire didn't hesitate to give him out. Latham's review also proved unsuccessful as India aimed to defend a low total and secure a win in the first Test match.
Amidst a disappointing start to the match against New Zealand, India's fielding woes continued as KL Rahul spilled a crucial catch of NZ skipper Tom Latham, who went on to score a vital 40 runs for his team. India's batting woes were also evident as they were bundled out for a humiliating 46 runs, with five batters registering ducks on the scoreboard. Despite a spirited bowling effort from Mohammed Siraj, New Zealand ended the day on a high, leaving India reelsing at their poor performance.
With the deadline for naming the initial squad for ICC T20 World Cup 2024 approaching, New Zealand has announced their 15-member squad for the tournament. Led by veteran Kane Williamson, the Black Caps have gone for an experienced squad with the inclusion of Tim Southee and Trent Boult. The Kiwis will aim to win their first T20 World Cup title with this squad, but have left out some key players such as Colin Munro and Tom Latham. Head coach Gary Stead believes the selected players have the adaptability to handle the varied conditions of the Caribbean venues.
Australian batting sensation Marnus Labuschagne was denied his 12th Test century by a spectacular one-handed catch from New Zealand's Glenn Phillips on the second day of the second Test match. In a thrilling turn of events, the catch helped the Kiwis gain the upper hand, with New Zealand standing at 134/2 at stumps with Tom Latham (65*) and Rachin Ravindra (11*) unbeaten at the crease. This was definitely a day to remember for both teams in the second and final Test match between Australia and New Zealand.
On the second day of the 2nd Test between New Zealand and Australia, opener Tom Latham's timely return to form helped the Black Caps overcome a 94-run deficit and end the day with a lead of 40 runs. Latham's unbeaten 65, along with Kane Williamson's half-century, allowed New Zealand to recover from the early dismissal of Will Young. This marks Williamson's 100th Test, but his celebration was cut short as he was dismissed by Pat Cummins soon after reaching his half-century.