The much-anticipated India vs New Zealand 1st Test in Bengaluru has been overshadowed by unfavorable weather conditions. Heavy clouds and rain on match-eve prevented both teams from training at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, and the forecast for the first three days suggests rain could disrupt the game. Groundstaff will be on high alert, though conditions are expected to improve in the latter part of the match.
New Zealand also faced a setback as pacer Ben Sears was ruled out of the series due to a knee injury. Uncapped bowler Jacob Duffy has been named as his replacement. India enters the Test after a 2-0 series win over Bangladesh, while New Zealand is looking to bounce back from a 2-0 defeat in Sri Lanka. India currently leads the World Test Championship standings, while New Zealand sits in sixth place.
