Former India player turned veteran commentator Aakash Chopra has made his predictions for the second Test between India and New Zealand. The match will take place at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai from December 3. Notably, the first Test in Kanpur ended in a draw as the last batting pair survived India’s bowling attack.

However, Team India will have their regular skipper Virat Kohli and will hope to win in the series decider as well. And, the veteran believes the side batting first will be dealt an early blow too.

Aakash Chopra predicted: “First wicket will fall in the first 45 minutes, whether we bat or they bat, the first person will be out. Will Young or Tom Latham from their side and from our side – I don’t know who alongside Shubman Gill. That is a question.”

ALSO READ: Fans react as the first Test between INDvNZ ended in a draw

In Rohit Sharma’s absence, Mayank Agarwal was Shubman Gill’s opening partner in the first Test at Kanpur. Although Team India have no reserve opener in the squad, they might back Cheteshwar Pujara at the top of the order if they want to play with Ajinkya Rahane. But, Aakash Chopra also feels that a few batters will fall prey to short-pitched deliveries. He also said that Team India is likely to win as well.

“Two batters to be dismissed off bouncers, there is a good possibility. Which two, I don’t know. Shreyas Iyer and Cheteshwar Pujara were dismissed in Kanpur and Somerville also, cannot say who will be the ones here. I feel India will win the match, that is what I believe,” Aakash Chopra concluded.

READ HERE: Wasim Jaffer names batting-order for 2nd Test vs New Zealand

However, Team India will be the favourites in the Wankhede Test after doing well in the first as well. And, they cannot take the Kiwis lightly as the conditions in Mumbai could assist the pacers. And, pace spearhead Tim Southee has already in the form alongside Kyle Jamieson as well.