India will face New Zealand in their last warm up match before the much-awaited contest against Pakistan on October 23. India are coming off a thrilling six-run win over Australia. However, New Zealand had a poor outing in their last warm-up match, losing the contest by nine wickets with their batters failing to reach even triple digits. 

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India’s biggest strength is their batting lineup, with almost all their batters performing well. However, skipper Rohit Sharma would like to spend some time in the middle, as he hasn’t been able to score big inspite of being in good touch.

The Indian team management will more or less be focusing on fielding and bowling of the team. Despite Mohammed Shami’s brilliant last over and Harshal Patel’s economical penultimate over, Indian bowlers still leaked a lot of runs. This is worrying especially in the powerplay overs. There is always room for improvement in fielding, and India would like to do the same.

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New Zealand, on the other hand, will have a lot on their plate after their crushing 9-wicket defeat against South Africa. The entire New Zealand batting lineup was sent back to the pavilion for just 98 runs by the Proteas. They chased the target down in less than 12 overs, with nine wickets to spare.

With the exception of Martin Guptill, no other player was able to score above 20. And only three players were able to reach double digits. Skipper Kane Williamson also scored only three runs, before getting bowled by Wayne Parnell. New Zealand’s best T20 batter Devin Conway did not bat in the innings, and he may also get some playing time against India.

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New Zealand face hosts and defending champions Australia in the tourament opener on October 22. On the next day, India face Pakistan in the marquee clash of the event.