The Christchurch Press wrote, "Where the Black Caps achieve parity and should have an advantage at home is in the bowling ranks.

Leg-spinner Anil Kumble and seam bowler Javagal Srinath are the cornerstones of India's bowling attack, while Venkatesh Prasad should develop further in New Zealand conditions.

But India's back-up spin bowling resources are barely tried.... [t]hrough Chris Cairns, Dion Nash and Shayne O'Connor, there is wicket-taking prowess.

Paceman Geoff Allott made a comeback into the squad for the third time and was included ahead of Shayne O'Connor as he offered "more pace and bounce".

[2] Roger Twose was included to their side for the Third Test replacing an injured Nathan Astle.