India vs New Zealand WTC Final: Can the Black Caps stun the Men in Blue?

​The first edition of the World Test Championship finally begins this week as India lock horns with New Zealand at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton. The two cricketing heavyweights have some of the best players in their ranks and are set to battle it out in what is set to be a historic Test match.

India have emerged as a genuine cricketing powerhouse over the years and arguably boast the best squad in the world. The Men in Blue battered England in their own backyard earlier this year and hold a slight upper hand going into this match.

Kohli is likely to opt for two spinning all-rounders with Ashwin and Jadeja making up their lower middle-order. Ishant Sharma and Jasprit Bumrah are set to feature in the bowling line-up with either Shami or Siraj taking up the other spot.

New Zealand have become an exceptionally well-rounded outfit in recent years and stunned England at Edgbaston earlier this year. Devon Conway has emerged as an incredible find for the Kiwis and makes up a robust batting order with the likes of Latham, Williamson, and Taylor.

The Black Caps do have a selection conundrum, however, with Jamieson, Wagner, Boult, Southee, and Henry battling for four spots. Ajaz Patel is also an option for this Test after his excellent performance against England.

India might have enjoyed a brilliant few months in Test cricket but are at a distinct disadvantage in this match. The conditions at the Ageas Bowl will support New Zealand’s swing bowling exponents and could present a threat to India’s top order. The difference in betting odds will not be particularly large, however, with both teams fairly evenly matched ahead of this game. With rain likely to affect several days of this match and conditions favouring swing, we can expect there to be a slight shortage of runs.

• India to win the match for 3;
• Total Runs in match under 984.5 for 1.83;
• Devon Conway to win Man of the Match for 12.