New Zealand’s newly appointed Test captain, Tom Latham, has called for the team to play with a fearless mindset as they prepare for a three-match series against India. With four consecutive losses in the World Test Championship effectively ending their hopes for the final, Latham hopes to steer the team in a new direction.
Latham took over the full-time captaincy after Tim Southee stepped down following the series against Sri Lanka last month. His leadership debut will be in the upcoming Tests in Bengaluru, Pune, and Mumbai, before they return home to face England in another three-match series.
New Zealand’s track record in India has been tough, with only two victories from 36 Test matches—the last wins coming in 1969 and 1988. During their recent tour of Sri Lanka, the Kiwis narrowly lost the first Test by 63 runs but were convincingly beaten in the second, bowled out for just 88 in the first innings and losing by an innings and 154 runs.
Latham stated that he aims to build on the positives from their recent performances while adding his personal touch as captain. He shared that going to India is an exciting challenge, and they will need to play freely and without fear to put pressure on the opposition. He acknowledged that teams who have succeeded in India have often adopted an aggressive approach, particularly with the bat, and highlighted the importance of staying proactive rather than waiting for the game to unfold.
Reflecting on the recent Sri Lanka series, Latham pointed out that the team had done many things well despite the results, especially their batting approach, and plans to maintain that momentum. He believes that by playing a brand of cricket they can take pride in, the team will increase its chances of success.
Latham has led New Zealand in Test matches before, standing in for Kane Williamson on nine occasions between 2020 and 2022. Now, with the opportunity to take the reins permanently, he plans to draw on those experiences while encouraging his teammates to lead and express themselves on the field.
One of the challenges Latham will face as captain is deciding on the selection of Tim Southee, the former captain, who has struggled to take wickets in the last year. Latham, however, is confident in Southee’s abilities, recalling his seven-wicket haul in Bangalore during a previous tour. He highlighted that Southee’s wealth of experience and knowledge will be an asset to the team, regardless of whether he is playing as a captain or a bowler.
Latham concluded by expressing his eagerness to tap into Southee’s ideas and expertise as they work together to guide the team through the upcoming series in India.