New Zealand’s captain Tim Southee said he was looking forward to his side’s Test series against Bangladesh, saying he hoped the Kiwis spinners would outwit their “strong” opponents.
“The guys have a great desire for Test cricket,” Tim Southee said ahead of the opening match of the two-Test series in Bangladesh’s northeastern city Sylhet on Tuesday.
“They say it is the pinnacle of the game. Whenever we play Test cricket, it is always special. We love and prioritise Test cricket”, he added.
New Zealand won the title of the opening World Test Championship in 2021 but finished sixth in the next cycle, which ended in 2023 with Australia beating India in the final.
The Kiwis have not won a Test in Bangladesh since their three-wicket win in Chittagong in 2008.
Their next three Tests, including both matches in a 2013 series, ended in a draw.
“The start of the new cycle is exciting,” Tim Southee added. “It is a tough place to play Tests. Bangladesh are strong in these conditions.”
Tim Southee said he hoped his spinners would tip the balance in their favour.
“It is foreign conditions compared to New Zealand — pace plays a big role in New Zealand, spin historically plays a big role in this part of the world,” Tim Southee said. “Our spinners have done some great things in Tests. We are looking forward to them showcasing their skills.”
The visitors named a spin-heavy squad for the upcoming series, with Mitchell Santner and Ajaz Patel joining IshSodhi along with two spin all-rounders, Glenn Phillips and RachinRavindra.
