Adapting To Rainy Weather Conditions More Important Than Playing XI Reckons Tom Latham

The first day of the World Test Championship final was called off and Tom Latham has reckoned that the playing XI needs to adapt to weather conditions more than making changes. The rain was belting down in the morning session and even the toss could not take place yesterday. New Zealand will have the option to pick their playing XI according to the surface as they have announced just the 15 member squad.

On the other hand, India has already announced their playing XI for the final one day before and they might not make a change despite the conditions being wet and overcast. The rain forecast has already mentioned that there could be rain possibly on the five days of the test and if the match ends in a draw, the trophy will be shared.

“Probably, Doesn’t Change Huge Amount” – Tom Latham

The New Zealand opener Tom Latham reckoned that the playing XI is not going to a huge amount due to the rain and he mentioned that adapting according to the weather conditions is very important. He added that that the playing XI will be confirmed after a look at the wicket and he was assured of the skipper and Coach’s plans could be making good changes according to the need of the hour.

Probably, doesn’t change huge amount (selection of playing XI). Tom Latham said when questioned about any change in playing XI.

Obviously, with an extra day we have got up our sleeves, the game can still go on for full five days. I guess, for us, it is about the wait and see and adapt to whatever conditions we face and ready to go when called upon.

“We haven’t confirmed the final XI yet, we have to wait and see when we get the chance to look at the wicket. I am sure Kane (Williamson) and (Gary) Stead have a few contingencies planned. We have to wait for the covers to come off and get a chance to play. 

“Obviously Both Teams Can Make Changes Before The Toss” – Tom Latham

Tom Latham also highlighted the fact that both teams can make changes before the toss and there are no constraints until that despite India announcing the playing XI early. He felt eager to see the pitch as soon as possible and was excited to get into the act as soon as possible.

“Obviously both teams can make changes before the toss, so both are in the same position. India have named their XI, obviously, that can change before the toss, so we have to wait and see once we get to that stage of the game”

The only likely change India might consider is bringing in Mohammad Siraj for Ravindra Jadeja for the weather conditions but it might just weaken the batting a little bit.