New Zealand vs India 2020: 5 most important elements of the Test series

India’s spinners

Ashwin might have another opportunity to prove that he could be a match-winner outside the subcontinent

For the umpteenth time, Ravichandran Ashwin’s abilities on unhelpful non-subcontinental pitches would be tested. He is yet to pick up a five-wicket haul outside Asia, barring West Indies. He came close to it in 2018 in South Africa and Australia but couldn’t quite push on.

In fact, in 2018, there were three Tests, one each in Centurion, Southampton, and Adelaide, where, on helpful pitches, he was expected to deliver the killer blow. But he failed. Now, if he plays, it would be his first outing in New Zealand. His performance would be keenly watched. Also, he is getting close to 400 Test wickets.

The record for getting fastest to this mark lies with Muttiah Muralitharan (72 Tests). Ashwin may not break that record but he can certainly beat Richard Hadlee, who is at second position (80 Tests). A good haul of wickets in this series would be very helpful.

On the other hand, if Jadeja is picked instead of Ashwin, he too would be under the pressure to prove himself. On the last tour of New Zealand, he got pummeled by Brendon McCullum. Though he does have a five-wicket haul in South Africa, that wasn’t a match-winning performance. So, Jadeja too has a point to prove.