India vs New Zealand ODI series: 5 biggest factors that will decide the outcome

Southee’s form

Tim Southee has a great chance to revive his ODI career

In the 2015 World Cup, both Tim Southee and Trent Boult bowled spectacularly and played a key part in the Kiwi team’s progress through to the final. In the 2019 World Cup though, Southee found himself out of the team and his place was taken by Matt Henry.

With both Boult and Henry out of the team, Southee suddenly finds himself back in the ODI scheme of things and as the most experienced bowler. This is a golden opportunity for the tall right-arm seamer. He is up against one of, if not the toughest top-order to bowl to and he can make a big mark by bowling well.

Also, as the senior man in the line-up, he will have to shepherd the likes the Scott Kuggeleijn and Kyle Jamieson. Southee is certain to take the new ball unless Williamson wants to experiment. Hence, he would have to set the rhythm for the entire team as Indian team’s strength lies with the top order.

If Southee can remove batsmen like Kohli or Rohit, that would be a big jolt to the visitors. For Southee, it is a make or break for his international ODI career.