New Zealand are set to face South Africa in the first Test of the two-match series at Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui on Sunday, February 4. The New Zealand team will be led by experienced pacer Tim Southee. The 14-member squad includes star batter Kane Williamson along with the young sensation Rachin Ravindra.
On the other hand, South Africa are fielding a weakened squad due to many of their regular red-ball players participating in the SA20 League. The uncapped Neil Brand will captain the squad, which features seven other uncapped players.
Test Stats and Records at Bay Oval:
- Total matches: 4
- Matches won batting first: 2
- Matches won bowling first: 2
- Average first innings scores: 359
- Average second innings scores: 404
- Average third innings scores: 230
- Average fourth innings scores: 146
- Highest total recorded: 615/9 (201 Overs) by New Zealand vs England
- Lowest total recorded: 126/10 (45.3 Overs) by New Zealand vs England
Also READ: New Zealand vs South Africa 2024, Test Series: Broadcast, Live Streaming details – When and where to watch in India, Australia, USA, & other countries
Bay Oval Pitch Report
The pitch at Bay Oval is known for its balance, offering a fair contest between bat and ball. Batters need to exercise patience and precision in their shot selection, while bowlers can anticipate consistent seam movement throughout the match. Seamers are likely to play a significant role in exploiting the conditions and making an impact on the game.
Mount Maunganui Weather Forecast
The weather forecast for the entire five-day duration of the first Test at Bay Oval indicates clear conditions. The temperature is expected to range between 24 degrees Celsius and 27 degrees Celsius, with no chance of rainfall.
New Zealand vs South Africa, 1st Test: Probable Playing XI:
New Zealand: Tom Latham, Devon Conway, Kane Williamson, Tom Blundell, Glenn Phillips, Daryl Mitchell, Tim Southee (c), Kyle Jamieson, Mitchell Santner Neil Wagner, Matt Henry.
South Africa: David Bedingham, Neil Brand, Ruan de Swardt, Keegan Petersen, Khaya Zondo, Raynard van Tonder, Clyde Fortuin, Dane Piedt, Duanne Olivier, Tshepo Moreki, Mihlali Mpongwana
Also READ: Cricket South Africa names 7 uncapped players in their Test squad for New Zealand tour
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