New Zealand's Test Challenge in India: Guptill's Perspective

Former Black Caps opener Martin Guptill asserts that New Zealand batters face a tough challenge in adapting to India's turning and skidding balls in their forthcoming Test tour. Highlights the need for mental preparedness, and asserts Ravichandran Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, and Ravindra Jadeja as significant threats. Emphasizes on young Kiwi pacer Will O'Rourke's potential.

According to former Black Caps opener Martin Guptill, the New Zealand batters' primary challenge on their upcoming Test tour of India will be handling the turning ball, particularly those that skid through. Guptill, speaking on the sidelines of Legends League Cricket, emphasized the significance of mental acuity.

India and New Zealand, the finalists of the inaugural World Test Championship, will face off in a three-match series starting October 16. Guptill noted India's formidable home record of winning 17 consecutive series and stressed the importance of capitalizing on any advantage.

The former opener identified Ravichandran Ashwin and Jasprit Bumrah as the primary threats for the Kiwis, while also praising young Kiwi pacer Will O'Rourke for his extra pace and bounce. Guptill concluded that the transition period for New Zealand's Test side will reveal if the next generation can fill the void left by veterans like Kane Williamson.

(With inputs from agencies.)