Santner reveals how India can succeed in New Zealand

Black Caps all-rounder Mitchell Santner believes India possess the necessary firepower and variety to succeed in their upcoming assignment in the ICC World Test Championship in New Zealand, despite the unique challenges posed by early-season conditions in the country.

With a squad featuring several players who are yet to experience the rigours of Test cricket in New Zealand, Santner feels quick adaptation to the conditions will be key for the visitors.

"The first thing is to try and understand the conditions as quickly as possible," Santner told The Times of India in an interview.

"A few players have been there before and done well. In October-November, the pitches can play differently compared to February-March.

"So, early in the season in New Zealand, the ball might move around a little bit. It is about getting your head around that," he added.

With the early-season conditions are expected to favour the moving ball, Santner feels India’s pace battery is more than equipped for the task.

"(Jasprit) Bumrah leading the attack and being able to nip and swing the ball will hold the key," Santner said.

"(Mohammed) Siraj has done it for a long time as well and (Prasidh) Krishna is obviously bowling well. There is a lot of variety, which is what you need."

Manav Suthar has been one of India's key bowlers in recent series with his performance in Sri Lanka being especially noteworthy.

Santner believes he can have a role to play in New Zealand even though the conditions there might not be as conducive to spin bowling. 

"He has been very impressive since he made his debut," Santner said of Suthar.

"He gets nice and tight to the stumps and gets good shape on the ball. He does bowl with good overspin when he needs to and that is the key in NZ, trying to get a bit of bounce especially if there is grass.

"I think there is still a role for a spinner in NZ, especially in Tests alongside the quicks, whether it is first or second innings when the pitch might be holding up. On days four and five, it could spin a bit. Whether it is (Ravindra) Jadeja or Suthar, both are very good options," he added.

Currently in fifth position on the World Test Championship standings, India faces a tough ask to reach the WTC final at Lord's next year. It doesn't get any easier for them with a tour to New Zealand where they have only won a Test series twice in history, the last one in 2009.

However, despite their poor record, Santner backed the visitors' comprehensive squad depth to rise to the occasion.

"I think it has always been a challenge. They always play the best teams, and then having to adapt to the conditions quickly is the main thing," Santner said. 

"But they have got all bases covered," he concluded.

Series schedule

First Test: November 19-23, Wellington
Second Test: November 27-December 1, Christchurch