Former New Zealand fast bowler Trent Boult believes KL Rahul will be one of India’s most important batters during the upcoming two-Test series against New Zealand.

The Test series begins on November 19, with Rahul expected to play a major role at the top of India’s batting order. Boult, who took 317 wickets in Test cricket, is a big admirer of the Indian batter’s style.

The India tour of New Zealand begins on October 22 and will feature 10 white-ball matches before the two-Test series. The tour is also part of the centenary celebrations of India-New Zealand sporting ties.

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Boult Expects Tough Conditions For Batters

Boult feels the timing of the tour could make things difficult for the batters. India will be in New Zealand during late October and November, instead of the February-March window that has traditionally been used for tours.

The former left-arm pacer expects cold weather and believes the conditions could also help New Zealand’s bowlers.

“It’s going to be a good series, I’m sure,” the left-arm exponent of swing bowling gave his observations about conditions that he expects in Wellington and Christchurch.

Boult Backs New Zealand’s New-Look Pace Attack

Boult and Tim Southee formed one of New Zealand’s most successful new-ball partnerships for several years. However, Boult feels the current bowling attack has enough quality and variety to create its own identity.

Kyle Jamieson, Matt Henry, Nathan Smith and Will O’Rourke are among the bowlers expected to play important roles for New Zealand.

Trent Boult Remembers Neil Wagner

Boult also spoke highly of his former New Zealand teammate Neil Wagner, who was known for his aggressive approach and ability to make an impact even in difficult conditions.

Wagner played a key role alongside Boult and Southee during New Zealand’s successful period in Test cricket.