The three-match Test series between India and New Zealand is all set to get underway on Wednesday (October 15) at the Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru.
On the eve of the first Test, Kiwi skipper Tom Latham addressed a press conference, where he highlighted the importance of adapting to the unique conditions that Indian pitches present.
"You obviously look at the spinners when you come over these conditions. But they've got an equally good seam attack in Bumrah, Siraj, Akash Deep, who's played the last couple of Tests against Bangladesh. So just a well-rounded side," Latham told reporters.
The captain also emphasized the significance of mental resilience in Test cricket, particularly against a side like India.
"From a batting point of view, you have a lot of match winners who can take a game away from you pretty quickly. We're looking forward to the challenge. Hopefully, we can lean back on the experiences that we've had here the last couple of times that we've toured," he added.
Latham is excited to make a transition from caretaker to full-time Test captain during the India tour. The southpaw took over the role from Tim Southee, who stepped down from the position after the team’s 2-0 defeat on the tour of Sri Lanka last month.
"It's obviously a huge, exciting privilege for me to be in this position. But regardless whether I'm captain or not captain, I'm trying to perform my role as best as I can. That's not going to be any different being captain," he remarked.
In the absence of senior batter Kane Williamson, Latham is pinning his hopes on Will Young and Devon Conway to step up to the plate.
"It's disappointing not to have Kane here. Fingers crossed he'll be ready as soon as possible. I think Youngie (Will Young) will play. He'll bat at three. He's batted all over the order. I guess it's his opportunity to put his hand up. Yeah, obviously, disappointing when you miss a senior guy like Kane, but it gives opportunities for other guys to put their hand up," he said.
As the first Test approaches, Tom Latham remains optimistic yet realistic about the challenges ahead.
"And, yeah, I guess you come here to India, it's slightly different conditions. That wicket at Galle didn't offer a lot from a bowling point of view," he concluded.
