Shocking! Tim Southee, New Zealand captain, to be benched for crucial subcontinent Tests
Published - 12 Aug 2024, 11:42 AM | Updated - 23 Aug 2024, 01:17 AM
New Zealand captain Tim Southee’s participation in the upcoming Tests could be in jeopardy as the team plans to adapt to the spinning conditions of the subcontinent, as they are set for the India and Sri Lanka tour. In Southee's absence, Tom Latham could lead the side.
With the New Zealand cricket team set to face Afghanistan in a one-off Test in India and then face Sri Lanka in a two-match Test series, Southee’s role could be re-evaluated based on pitch conditions and team strategy.
Tim Southee likely to sit out of Afghanistan and Sri Lanka Tests
The senior speedster, who will be leading a 15-player squad packed with strong spin attack, may find himself sidelined for some matches against Afghanistan in India and Sri Lanka.
The squad boasts five specialist spin options, including Mitchell Santner, Ajaz Patel, and Michael Bracewell, alongside part-time spin assistants Glenn Phillips and Rachin Ravindra.
On the other hand, New Zealand’s pace attack, featuring Southee, Matt Henry, Ben Sears, and Will O'Rourke, might face a strategic overhaul depending on the subcontinent’s spinning tracks during the upcoming one-off Test against Afghanistan in Noida and two Tests against Sri Lanka in Galle.
Gary Stead addresses challenges for pace bowlers in sub-continental Tests
After New Zealand Cricket (NZC) announced the Test squad for the upcoming tour, head coach Gary Stead has hinted at a potential shake-up, suggesting that the pace bowlers, including the skipper Southee, might not be utilized in every game.
Stead said that spin always dominates in the subcontinent, potentially leaving Southee out in the cold for some of these Test fixtures. New Zealand’s Test captain might sit out of all three Tests or the Sri Lanka tour, as the spin is expected to play a key role in the upcoming subcontinent Tests.
Gary Stead said in an official statement: “Test tours to the subcontinent can ask some really tough questions of pace bowlers due to the nature of the pitches and the heat and humidity. While we're going over with an open mind around conditions, there is an understanding that all our bowling options may be needed across the different tests.
"Tim and I have discussed this and the need during these overseas tours to balance the workloads of the pace bowlers, including himself, to ensure the team is best served.”
Meanwhile, Pakistan’s spin legend Saqlain Mushtaq is set to rejoin New Zealand's coaching staff as the bowling coach for the upcoming three Test matches in India and Sri Lanka. Additionally, former England wicketkeeper James Foster will rejoin the New Zealand team as the assistant coach.
New Zealand's cricket calendar from September to December includes nine Test matches, including a home Test series against England in October and November. They are currently sitting at the third spot in the World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 points table, and these games are really crucial for them to secure a spot in the WTC final at Lord's next June.
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