NZ vs IND: Bhuvneshwar will have a big impact, says Tim Southee

Tim Southee is an authority on swing bowling.

Ahead of India’s multi-format tour of New Zealand, the former Kiwi pacer shared his thoughts on all things fast bowling and much more.

On Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s recall to the Indian T20I squad, Southee said: “He’ll be thrilled to have another opportunity, which he probably didn’t think was going to come. He’s a very skilful and experienced bowler. And Bhuvneshwar probably knows his game better than he ever has. He’s still bowling extremely well in the best franchise competition in the world, the IPL… he’ll have a big impact.”

Bumrah and Siraj will be a handful in New Zealand.
| Photo Credit:
FILE PHOTO: SHIV KUMAR PUSHPAKAR

Bumrah factor

For all of Jasprit Bumrah’s global dominance, New Zealand has been a bugbear for the pace ace in the longest format. He has lost all five Tests, returning nine wickets at an average of 45.44 (career: 19.79) and strike-rate of 92.8 (42.8).

“New Zealand has played Bumrah incredibly well in Test cricket. I don’t think Bumrah has played in an Indian team that’s beaten New Zealand. I’m a big fan of Mohammed Siraj and the way he bowls. He could be a handful if he can get his length right. There’s a lot to like about Siraj in particular. There’s no reason why the other bowlers in and around Bumrah won’t be able to trouble the New Zealand batters,” Southee said during a virtual interaction on Thursday.

On the challenges facing India’s top-order in early-season Kiwi conditions, Southee said: “When you’re playing in India, arguably the easiest time to bat is with the new ball before it starts to turn. In New Zealand, it’s almost the other way around… the hardest time to bat is with the new ball.”

The 37-year-old also gave his prediction for the two-Test series.

“There will be a bit of weather around.. I’ll go 1-0 to New Zealand.”

(Watch India tour of New Zealand live and exclusive on Sony Sports Network and Sony LIV starting October 22).