Former New Zealand fast bowler Tim Southee believes Mohammed Siraj could be a major threat during India’s upcoming tour of New Zealand. While praising Siraj’s energy and ability to adapt to different conditions, Southee also highlighted New Zealand’s impressive record against Jasprit Bumrah in Test cricket, setting the stage for an intriguing battle between the two sides. Southee, who represented New Zealand in 107 Tests, 161 ODIs and 126 T20Is, will join the commentary team for India’s white-ball fixtures during the tour.

The T20I series is scheduled to begin on October 22, 2026, while the two-Test series will start on November 19, with matches planned in Wellington and Christchurch. Speaking to Sony Sports Network, Southee explained why he believes the Black Caps have handled Bumrah effectively in the longest format. “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.

However, the former New Zealand captain was equally enthusiastic about Siraj’s prospects. He believes the Indian pacer’s relentless approach and ability to maintain intensity throughout long spells could make him particularly effective on New Zealand pitches.

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“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,” Tim Southee added.

Southee also acknowledged the quality of India’s wider pace attack, pointing to Prasidh Krishna and other fast bowlers who have delivered encouraging performances in Test cricket recently. He believes Indian bowlers should be comfortable adapting to New Zealand’s conditions, particularly given their experience playing on surfaces that offer limited assistance.

Pitches in Christchurch, Auckland, Wellington, Hamilton and Mount Maunganui can provide good bounce and carry, potentially giving fast bowlers opportunities to exploit movement early in matches. However, Southee noted that surfaces can become flatter after the opening day or two, making consistency and execution increasingly important.

“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.” He added that India’s experience on batting-friendly pitches could help the bowlers adjust as conditions change during a match.

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Southee also praised New Zealand’s batting line-up, describing the home side as experienced and well equipped to handle familiar conditions. The Black Caps head into the contest after securing a 2-1 comeback series victory 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.”

Southee expects a competitive contest between two strong sides, with India’s pace attack facing a stern examination against New Zealand’s experienced batters. The upcoming tour should provide an opportunity for Siraj and his fellow fast bowlers to demonstrate their ability to deliver in challenging overseas conditions.