India’s preparations for the upcoming Test series against New Zealand have produced mixed results, with the batting unit showing encouraging form while questions remain over bowling readiness and Rishabh Pant’s fitness. The three-match unofficial Test series between India A and New Zealand A has concluded with all three matches ending in draws.
The shadow tour was organised to help India's Test players adapt to New Zealand's conditions ahead of the two-match Test series, which begins on November 19 in Wellington. Several senior players were included in the India A squad to gain valuable match practice in unfamiliar conditions.
India's batting emerged as one of the biggest positives from the tour. Devdutt Padikkal finished as the leading run-scorer with 326 runs from five innings, including a magnificent 199. Yashasvi Jaiswal also impressed, scoring 279 runs at an average of nearly 70, while Sai Sudharsan contributed 231 runs.
Jaiswal's performances were particularly encouraging, as he scored centuries in successive matches. His ability to handle the conditions and build long innings will provide confidence to the Indian team management ahead of the international series.
Dhruv Jurel also strengthened his position with consistent performances. His 105 in the second unofficial Test and another half-century in the final match highlighted his batting ability. Yash Rathod was another standout performer, scoring 223 runs in four innings, including a century.
However, India's bowling department remains a concern. New Zealand A scored 424 in the first innings of the second match despite losing three early wickets for just 13 runs. Mukesh Kumar claimed five wickets in that innings, while Mohammed Siraj picked up four.
Jasprit Bumrah's workload has also attracted attention. The experienced fast bowler returned for the final practice match but bowled only six overs in a rain-affected contest. Prasidh Krishna, who recently recovered from a hamstring injury, managed just five overs. Siraj, meanwhile, featured in only one warm-up match.
Another major selection question concerns the wicketkeeping position. Pant missed the first two matches because of a side strain and did not feature in the final game either. Although he received fitness clearance, his match readiness remains an important consideration. Jurel's impressive performances have given the team management another option.
With Ravindra Jadeja also yet to bowl during the New Zealand A tour, India's bowling combination remains uncertain.
The three practice matches have provided valuable batting exposure, but the limited examination of India's frontline bowlers means some questions remain unanswered before the first Test.
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