New Zealand to Face Afghanistan in One-Off Test Ahead of Subcontinent Challenges

New Zealand will face Afghanistan in a one-off Test match starting on September 9, 2024, as part of their preparations for the upcoming World Test Championship challenges in the subcontinent. This will be New Zealand's first-ever Test against Afghanistan, who obtained Test status in 2017.

New Zealand's recent subcontinent record has been underwhelming, with 40 losses in 90 matches. They will be keen to improve their performance in these conditions, especially with the marquee series against India approaching next month. Spin is expected to dominate proceedings, and New Zealand has come well-prepared with five slow bowling options.

Left-arm spinner Ajaz Patel, who returns to India for the first time since his 10-wicket haul in Mumbai in 2021, is expected to make the playing XI. Rachin Ravindra, who has been training in Chennai, is also likely to be included as an all-rounder. Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Santner, and Michael Bracewell are vying for the remaining spinners' spots.

Matt Henry is New Zealand's best seamer at the moment, but captain Tim Southee's dip in Test form is a concern. Will O'Rourke or express pacer Ben Sears may be given a go.

Afghanistan, on the other hand, have played only nine Tests since gaining Test status. They have lost their last three Tests against Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Ireland. However, they have managed to beat Ireland, Bangladesh, and Zimbabwe in their brief Test journey.

Afghanistan's squad for the Test includes experienced players like Hashmatullah Shahidi, Ibrahim Zadran, and Rahmat Shah. Seam-bowling all-rounder Azmatullah Omarzai is likely to make his Test debut, while Zia-ur-Rehman, Zahir Khan, Khalil Ahmed, Qais Ahmad, Shahidullah Kamal, and Bahir Shah are the spin options.

The match is likely to be affected by rain and thunderstorms throughout the week.

Tags: #cricket, #Testcricket, #NewZealand, #Afghanistan, #subcontinent