India A vs NZ A: Jaiswal, Pant Lead Key Test Rehearsal

The matches will be played at Bert Sutcliffe Oval in Lincoln from October 24, Hagley Oval in Christchurch from October 31 and again in Lincoln from November 7. Nine members of the senior Test squad have been named in the touring party, which suggests it will be a lot more than just a habituation tour.

Jaiswal and Rahul Face Testing Conditions

Jaiswal will be one of the standout names as he bids to make his debut on New Zealand soil. The left-handed opener will need to curb his natural aggression against the moving ball and seam-friendly conditions.

KL Rahul, who has been named vice-captain of the senior side for the Test series, will play in the first match before heading to the ODI squad. He will look to fine-tune his game ahead of the Tests.

Another position that will come under the spotlight is India’s No. 3. Here, Sudharsan and Padikkal will have a chance to stake their claims, with the latter arriving on a high after two consecutive centuries against Sri Lanka A.

Pant’s Return and Jurel’s Leadership

One man whose preparations for the Tests will be closely watched is Pant. After a left-side strain, the wicketkeeper-batsman is likely to miss the first two matches. Kumar Kushagra has been named as his replacement, and Pant will provide a handy cover for the main squad. If he recovers in time, Pant could feature in the final match.

Dhruv Jurel, meanwhile, has been named captain of India A and will look to make the most of his opportunity to prove himself as a leader. He will add pace to the bowling attack as a reliable lower-order batter.

Akash Deep Leads the Pace Challenge

Akash Deep, too, will be keen to stake his claim as a dependable bowler in India’s top order. After a long layoff due to a lumbar stress injury, the Bengal pacer will look to regain his rhythm and fitness. Anshul Kamboj can also thrive on the seam-friendly conditions, where good length bowling has been key to success. Meanwhile, Washington Sundar will have a chance to bat through the innings and build his lower-order partnerships.