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Former New Zealand pacer Tim Southee has backed Mohammed Siraj to make a significant impact during India's upcoming tour of New Zealand, while also pointing out that New Zealand have a strong record against Jasprit Bumrah in Test cricket.
Southee, who represented New Zealand in 107 Tests, 161 ODIs and 126 T20Is, will be part of the commentary team for India's white-ball fixtures in New Zealand. Those matches begin with T20I games on October 22, 2026, while the two-Test series is scheduled to start on November 19, 2026, with matches in Wellington and Christchurch.
"I think New Zealand have played Bumrah incredibly well in Test cricket. I don’t think Bumrah has played in an Indian team that has beaten New Zealand. So, I think New Zealand play him exceptionally well in Tests," Southee said, speaking to Sony Sports Network.
Why does Southee believe Siraj can be a handful in New Zealand?
Southee was clear about his admiration for Siraj's approach to bowling and his capacity to adapt to different surfaces. He pointed to Siraj's relentless energy and consistent running in as qualities that could translate well to New Zealand conditions.
"I'm a big fan of Mohammed Siraj and the way he bowls. If he can get his length right in New Zealand, he could be a handful. The energy he brings, the way he runs in all day, the type of bowler he is, there's no reason why he can't have a lot of success in New Zealand conditions. There's a lot to like about him in particular," Southee said.
Southee also noted that pitches across Christchurch, Auckland, Wellington, Hamilton and Mount Maunganui typically offer good bounce and pace, which he expects to be the case for India's limited-overs games as well.
What did Southee say about India's broader pace attack and the contest ahead?
Southee extended his praise beyond Siraj, speaking positively about the wider Indian fast-bowling group and their ability to perform away from home. He specifically highlighted the recent Test performances of other members of the attack as an encouraging sign.
"The other guys like Prasidh Krishna and the like have had success in Tests in recent times as well, which is exciting for them. Now, alongside the use of the Kookaburra ball, the wickets after the first or the first two days can certainly flatten out. But if you look at the (Indian) attack, they’re used to playing on pretty flat surfaces. So, I’d imagine they’ll enjoy the challenge of bowling in New Zealand, and the conditions that may suit the bowlers and have a little bit in it (pitch) for them," Southee said.
He also acknowledged the quality of the New Zealand batting group, adding that they are well-equipped for the conditions at home. The Black Caps' last Test assignment saw them seal a come-from-behind 2-1 series win in England.
"New Zealand batters are very well equipped for the home conditions and know what they’re going to be faced with in terms of the early part of the season. So, yeah, it’ll be a good test. “It’s two very good teams going against each other. Overall, it’s a good Indian bowling attack against an experienced and pretty solid batting line-up of New Zealand," he concluded.
