KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal will be key, says Trent Boult ahead of New Zealand Tests

India will return to Test cricket with a two-match series against New Zealand beginning November 19. The tour forms part of a marathon schedule that starts October 22 and spans three formats, featuring 12 matches in total. The series is part of centenary celebrations marking 100 years of sporting ties between India and New Zealand.

Trent Boult, the 37-year-old New Zealand pace bowler with 317 Test wickets, has identified two Indian batters - KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal - as central to the contest. Boult highlighted the opening partnership and top-order batting as areas where India's strength will be tested.

"I'm always a big fan of KL Rahul and his style of batsmanship. So he's a big player at the top of the order for the Indian side. And yeah, I believe Jaiswal is there as well. Two classy batters to see bat. So yeah, be interesting to see," Boult was quoted as saying by Hindustan Times.

Why Rahul and Jaiswal matter to Boult

Rahul holds the position of India Test vice-captain and will be central to India's batting plans in the series. Jaiswal, 24 years old, has established himself as a key member of India's Test batting lineup. Both players will face a New Zealand bowling attack that Boult believes is well-equipped for the conditions. The Rotorua-born also explained the variety in New Zealand's pace-bowling department.

"The only thing I can see happening is it's going to be late October. I believe, just coming out of winter. So it's going to be quite cold. Hopefully, there's a bit of greenness in the wickets for some of our bowlers. It's going to be a good series, I'm sure," Trent said.

"I think the bowling is very well balanced. It's got bases covered in terms of a good pace, obviously, with Will O'Rourke. Obviously, a bit of swing and a bit of bounce from Kyle Jamieson and Matt Henry with his accuracy," he added.

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India will aim to secure both Test victories to maintain their position in the World Test Championship race. The series represents an important fixture in India's Test calendar as the team prepares for the challenges ahead in the championship cycle. They will also have a chance to avenge their series defeat at home against the Kiwis in 2024.