The first Test of the series between New Zealand and South Africa is set to kick off at Bay Oval this Sunday. With home advantage and a squad of seasoned bowlers, the Blackcaps are poised as strong favorites to win. The Proteas, laden with inexperienced players who have yet to face Test cricket, face a daunting task against the seasoned Kiwi lineup in unfamiliar conditions.
NZ vs SA 1st Test 2024: Bay Oval Pitch Report
The live broadcast of the pitch report for the first Test between South Africa and New Zealand at Bay Oval will air just moments before the toss. Historically, Mount Maunganui’s conditions have favored pace bowlers. In 2019, veteran Kiwi pacer Neil Wagner clinched an eight-wicket haul in a match against England, highlighting the bowler-friendly nature of the pitch. With an average run rate of less than three, batsmen have consistently struggled to score quickly in Test matches at this venue.
Also read: NZ vs SA 1st Test: List of Commentators & Umpires for Today Match 2024
NZ vs SA 1st Test 2024: Dream11 Prediction Today Match
- Wicketkeepers: Tom Latham
- Batters: Kane Williamson, Keegan Petersen, David Bedingham
- All-rounders: Daryl Mitchell, Mitchell Santner, Rachin Ravindra, Neil Brand
- Bowlers: Tim Southee, Matt Henry, Duanne Olivier
NZ vs SA 1st Test 2024: Squads
New Zealand: Tim Southee (c), Devon Conway, Tom Latham, Will Young, Kane Williamson, Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Blundell, Glenn Phillips, Mitch Santner, Kyle Jamieson, Matt Henry, Neil Wagner
South Africa: Neil Brand (c), David Bedingham, Ruan de Swardt, Clyde Fortuuin, Zubayr Hamza, Tshepo Moreki, Mihali Mpongwana, Duanne Olivier, Dane Paterson, Keegan Petersen, Dane Piedt, Raynard van Tonder, Shaun von Berg, Khaya Zondo