Brashna Kasi
India’s cricket team is on the brink of making history in the sport’s longest format. As they prepare for their upcoming Test series against New Zealand, not only are they striving for victory, but they are also poised to break several individual and team records that could reshape the landscape of Indian cricket.
Upcoming Test Series
The three-match Test series kicks off on October 16 at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. After a successful whitewash over Bangladesh, Team India stands at the top of the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025 points table. The first match is set to start at 9:30 AM. Captain Rohit Sharma will lead the squad, aiming to harness the momentum from the previous series.
Rohit Sharma’s Record-Breaking Opportunities
Rohit Sharma is not just leading his team; he has the chance to etch his name in the record books repeatedly during this series:
- Most Successful WTC Captain: If Rohit wins against New Zealand, he will surpass former captain Virat Kohli, making him the most successful captain in WTC history. Rohit has led India to 12 victories in 18 matches so far.
- Fourth Most Successful Test Captain: Winning all three matches against New Zealand would allow Rohit to pass Mohammad Azharuddin‘s record. Azharuddin won 14 matches from 1990 to 1997. Rohit currently has the chance to reach 15 wins.
These achievements highlight Rohit’s growing status as a leader in Indian cricket, further solidifying his legacy should he reach these milestones.
Individual Accolades Within Reach
In addition to team accomplishments, Rohit Sharma is also on the cusp of personal records that could distinguish him within the sport.
Chasing Historic Runs
Rohit’s batting prowess will face a significant test against the Kiwis. Currently, he has amassed 742 runs in 11 matches of the ongoing WTC cycle. Achieving a mere 258 runs against New Zealand would make him the first Indian batsman to score 1,000 runs across two WTC editions.
- 3000 WTC Runs: With 406 runs needed in this series, Rohit can also become the first player to achieve 3,000 runs in WTC matches. Presently, he boasts 2,594 runs from 34 matches.
These targets not only showcase his skill but also his capacity to perform under pressure, crucial for Team India’s ambitions.
Record for Most Sixes in a Year
India, as a team, stands on the verge of setting another remarkable record. They are poised to become the first team to hit 100 sixes in a single calendar year in Test matches. Currently, India holds the record for the most maximums with 97 sixes so far in 2024. Just three more would push them into the triple-digit territory, a feat never achieved before in Test cricket.
Team Composition and Strategy
As the series approaches, the weather conditions in Bengaluru could play a significant role. The likelihood of rain means that both teams may opt to field more seamers, setting up a thrilling contest between India’s skilled pace attack and that of New Zealand.
The matches will be broadcast live, ensuring fans can catch all the action. Viewers can tune in to Sports18 and Colours Cineplex on television or stream online via Jio Cinema.
Conclusion
As the excitement builds ahead of the Test series against New Zealand, Rohit Sharma and Team India have several records on the line. The stakes are high, and the players are ready to showcase their talents on the international stage. Whether they achieve these milestones or not, the journey will undeniably contribute to an unforgettable chapter in the annals of Indian cricket. As they aim for victory on home soil, fans and spectators alike will witness history in the making
