New Delhi: New Zealand captain Tom Latham was chuffed for his team’s first Test win in India after 36 years, but alerted his teammates of India’s firepower that can potentially hit them in the rest of the series.
On Sunday, the Black Caps thumped India by eight wickets in the first Test in Bengaluru to win their first Test in four decades. The last time New Zealand won a Test match in India was back in 1988 during the second Test match played at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.
However, Latham asked his players not to lose their focus from the series as they prepare for the second Test, scheduled to start on October 24.
“I think 36 years is the last time that we’ve won here. So, it’s a really special feeling to be in this position. It’s a proud moment for this group and one we’ll celebrate,” Latham said in the post-match press conference.
“We certainly know that it’s going to be a challenge against India (in the second Test), who obviously have a lot of firepower in that line-up,” he added.
New Zealand’s pace attack was spot on with Matt Henry and William O’Roukee doing the most part of the damage across two innings. The duo inflicted a low-scoring 46 all-out on India in the first innings on the morning of the second day in the overcast conditions.
Latham credited his bowlers for putting out a tremendous show even after India fought back in the second innings.
“I think the work we did with the new ball yesterday evening was outstanding. I think Southee, Henry and William asked lots of questions and obviously managed to get the rewards.
“We certainly knew India were going to get themselves right back in the game and just happy that we weren’t chasing too many more than 100,” he said.
Will Kane Williamson play in the second Test against India?
Senior New Zealand batter Kane Williamson missed the first Test against India in Bengaluru. He suffered groin strain during the two-match Test series against Sri Lanka last month in the island nation. Before the announcement of New Zealand squad, it was mentioned that the former Kiwi captain would require an extension period of rehabilitation before flying for India.
When Latham was asked about Williamson’s availability in the second Test, the skipper wasn’t sure over the top order batter’s return.
“I’m sure those conversations will be had over the next 24-48 hours, I guess anyone of Kane’s calibre, if he’s right and able to come back and decide, that would be obviously great,” Latham said.
“But yeah, I guess selection headaches are obviously always a great thing to have from a team point of view. So, fingers crossed he’ll be right. I’m not 100% sure on his return yet, but fingers crossed he can get over here as soon as possible,” he added.
