India vs New Zealand 2016 1st Test: 5 key player battles

India won their last home series against New Zealand 2-0 in 2012

#2 Mitchell Santner vs Cheteshwar Pujara

The solid middle order batsman from Saurashtra has a staggering home record in Tests but hasn’t replicated his form in the overseas conditions. In his short career, Pujara has already hit two double centuries and has been an important member of the Indian Test side especially in India. Though his inconsistent form has kept him out from the Indian side in the recent past, his staggering domestic record and Test record in India will make him a vital member of the Indian set up during their long home season.

On the other hand, left arm spinner Mitchell Santner has been impressive in his short career so far. The relative newcomer to international career will be mindful of the fact that Pujara had been troubled by left-arm spinners in the past and would look to unsettle him with his variations. With the Indian pitches expected to turn square, Santner will be eager to make his Test debut in India a memorable one.

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