October 10, 2024: Ahead of New Zealand's upcoming three-match Test series against India, wicketkeeper-batter Tom Latham expressed his pride and excitement about leading the Black Caps as the new full-time captain.
Latham steps into this role following Tim Southee's resignation as captain after New Zealand's 2-0 defeat in the recent Sri Lanka series. Latham, who has captained in a caretaker capacity before, now looks forward to bringing his own style to the leadership role.
In a video shared by New Zealand Cricket on X, Latham shared his thoughts on the captaincy, saying, "It's obviously a special feeling to be named full-time captain. It's a massive honour and a huge privilege… But I guess it's a different situation where I would be able to put a little bit of my own spin on things and what that looks like."
New Zealand will face India in the three-match Test series starting on October 16 at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. The second Test is set for October 24 at Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune, and the final match will take place at the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.
One of the major challenges for the Kiwis will be the absence of star batter Kane Williamson, who will miss at least the opening Test due to a groin injury he sustained during the Sri Lanka series. His absence is a significant blow to New Zealand, but Latham will look to guide his team through this tough challenge in India.
The New Zealand squad for the series includes a mix of experience and youth, with players like Mark Chapman and Michael Bracewell included. Ish Sodhi will join the team for the second and third Tests.
New Zealand Squad:
- Tom Latham (C)
- Tom Blundell (WK)
- Michael Bracewell (1st Test only)
- Mark Chapman
- Devon Conway
- Matt Henry
- Daryl Mitchell
- Will O'Rourke
- Ajaz Patel
- Glenn Phillips
- Rachin Ravindra
- Mitchell Santner
- Ben Sears
- Ish Sodhi (2nd and 3rd Tests only)
- Tim Southee
- Kane Williamson (availability dependent)
- Will Young
This series is highly anticipated, especially with Latham now in a leadership role, as the Black Caps look to compete strongly against India in challenging subcontinent conditions.
