As the cricket world gears up for the much-anticipated clash between India and New Zealand in the 1st Test of the New Zealand Tour of India, 2024, cricket lovers are excited not only about watching the live-action but also about immersing themselves in the game through fantasy cricket applications. From October 16 to October 20, the teams will face off at the historic M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru, and alongside this action-packed encounter, fantasy gaming platforms for Android and iOS will come alive with fans vying to build their dream teams and win exciting rewards.

Whether you’re a seasoned fantasy cricket player or a newcomer, this is your chance to turn your passion for cricket into a thrilling experience on your mobile device. Let’s dive deep into how you can enhance your cricket fandom with fantasy cricket, and how to make the best of the India vs New Zealand 1st Test!

What is Fantasy Cricket?

Fantasy cricket is a virtual game that allows users to create their own team of real players participating in the actual match. You, as the team owner, select 11 players from both sides based on their form, playing position, and expected performance in the game. The players you choose will score points based on their real-life performance in the ongoing match. The goal is to outscore your competitors by picking the best possible combination of players.

Fantasy cricket turns spectators into active participants, adding a layer of strategy, excitement, and competition to every ball bowled and every run scored.

Getting Started: How to Play Fantasy Cricket on Android and iOS

If you’re new to fantasy cricket, don’t worry! Getting started on Android or iOS is simple. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Download a Fantasy App: Begin by downloading a popular fantasy cricket app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. There are many reliable options available such as Dream11, My11Circle, MPL, or BalleBaazi. Once downloaded, register using your email or phone number, and you’ll be ready to play.
2. Select the Match: After logging in, head over to the section for upcoming matches. Look for the New Zealand Tour of India, 2024, and choose the 1st Test between India and New Zealand starting on October 16.
3. Create Your Team: Now comes the most exciting part – picking your dream team. You need to select 11 players from both India and New Zealand, but there are certain restrictions, such as having a maximum of 7 players from one team. You must also choose a Captain and a Vice-Captain, whose performances will score double and 1.5 times the points, respectively.
4. Balance Your Team: Be strategic while selecting your players. You need a balanced team comprising batsmen, bowlers, all-rounders, and wicketkeepers. Make sure to consider the form of the players, their strengths in the current conditions, and the pitch report. For instance, the spin-friendly conditions at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium favor bowlers like Ravindra Jadeja and Ajaz Patel, while experienced batsmen like Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson are solid choices for long innings.
5. Join Contests: After finalizing your team, choose from a range of contests to participate in. Fantasy cricket apps offer free contests for beginners and cash contests for experienced players. Choose contests based on your budget and skill level. The higher the entry fee, the bigger the prize pool!
6. Track Live Scores: Once the match begins, you can follow the live scores and see how your selected players are performing. Many fantasy apps also allow you to make changes in some formats, like substituting players during the match for T20 formats, but this may not apply for Test matches.
7. Claim Your Prizes: As the match progresses, your points tally will update in real-time based on your players’ performance. At the end of the Test, the winners of the various contests will be announced, and prizes will be distributed accordingly. If your team performs well, you could be taking home significant rewards!

Key Factors to Consider for Fantasy Cricket in the 1st Test

When it comes to Test matches, especially ones played in India, certain factors play a crucial role in determining the outcome of the match. Here are some tips and insights to help you craft the best fantasy cricket team for the India vs New Zealand 1st Test.

1. Pitch Conditions at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium

Bengaluru’s M. Chinnaswamy Stadium is known for its spin-friendly pitches, especially as the match progresses into the later days. The dry nature of the surface means spinners like Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja will be key to India’s success, while Ajaz Patel will be crucial for New Zealand. In fantasy cricket, you must take note of such conditions and pick spinners who are likely to bowl a significant number of overs and take wickets.

2. Player Form and Fitness

Selecting players who are in good form is critical. Look at recent performances in both domestic and international matches. Players like Virat Kohli, who has been in stellar form, or Kane Williamson, who is known for his consistency, can be your go-to choices. Additionally, always check for any last-minute updates regarding player injuries or unavailability.

3. Captain and Vice-Captain Choices

Your Captain and Vice-Captain choices can make or break your fantasy team. Since these players earn 2x and 1.5x points respectively, you should choose reliable, consistent performers. In the 1st Test, picking an all-rounder like Ravindra Jadeja or Ravichandran Ashwin as captain could be a smart move since they contribute both with the bat and ball.

4. India’s Home Advantage

India has an outstanding home record in Test cricket. They’ve built a team around strong spinners and adaptable batsmen who can handle any pitch. Players like Shubman Gill, Rohit Sharma, and Mohammed Shami have proven themselves in home conditions, making them great picks for your fantasy team. Conversely, New Zealand has struggled in subcontinental conditions historically, but they have players like Trent Boult and Tom Latham who can spring surprises.

Top Players to Watch Out For

Here are some top picks for your fantasy team for the India vs New Zealand 1st Test:

• Rohit Sharma (India): A class act at the top of the order, especially on home turf. Rohit has a knack for scoring big hundreds in Test cricket.
• Virat Kohli (India): The former captain is in form and thrives in Test cricket, especially under pressure. His ability to handle both pace and spin makes him a great fantasy pick.
• Ravindra Jadeja (India): The all-rounder is a constant performer in Indian conditions. He can chip in with important wickets and play crucial knocks with the bat.
• Ravichandran Ashwin (India): Ashwin is India’s go-to bowler in Tests, particularly in spin-friendly conditions. His ability to outfox batsmen will be pivotal.
• Kane Williamson (New Zealand): New Zealand’s best batsman and former captain, Williamson’s technique and temperament make him a reliable choice for fantasy cricket.
• Trent Boult (New Zealand): Boult’s ability to swing the ball in the early overs could be crucial in Bengaluru, especially with the new ball.

Why Fantasy Cricket is the Best Way to Enjoy the 1st Test

Fantasy cricket takes the enjoyment of watching a Test match to another level. It’s not just about being a spectator; it’s about being part of the action, using your knowledge of the game to outwit your competitors. By making informed decisions on player selection, you can turn each session of the Test match into an exciting and strategic experience.

Some of the key benefits of playing fantasy cricket during the New Zealand Tour of India, 2024 include:

• Engagement: Fantasy cricket keeps you engaged throughout the match, even during the slower sessions, as every run and wicket has a direct impact on your fantasy points.
• Skill Development: By analyzing player form, pitch conditions, and game strategy, you’ll deepen your understanding of the game and improve your fantasy skills.
• Competitive Spirit: Whether you’re competing against friends in private leagues or challenging strangers in cash contests, fantasy cricket brings out your competitive spirit, turning each match into a high-stakes battle.
• Rewards and Recognition: Winning fantasy cricket contests brings not only cash prizes but also recognition among your peers. Plus, it’s always satisfying to see your cricketing knowledge pay off.

Conclusion

With the 1st Test between India and New Zealand starting soon, now is the perfect time to download a fantasy cricket app on Android or iOS, build your team, and dive into the action. Whether you’re competing for the top spot in a high-stakes contest or just enjoying a casual game with friends, fantasy cricket offers an immersive way to experience the thrill of Test cricket.

So, are you ready to create your fantasy team and dominate the leaderboard in the New Zealand Tour of India, 2024? Join the millions of cricket fans who are turning their love for the game into rewards and get involved in the excitement! Who will be in your fantasy team?