Tim Southee warned Thursday that the New Zealand bowlers will have to adapt quickly to Mumbai's pitch after two days of rain hampered preparations for the second Test against India.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The Black Caps, led by Kane Williamson, come into the second clash of the two-match series starting Friday after a hard-fought draw in Kanpur.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
But the tourists were forced to call off their training for the second day running while India did some indoor practice after Mumbai's unseasonal rains.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
"It's a different lead-in to what we are all expecting," the 32-year-old quick Southee said.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
"I don't think we were expecting too much rain in the lead-in, but it's just something that we will have to adapt to."<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Southee took a five-wicket haul in the first innings of the Kanpur Test and ended with eight scalps in a match dominated by the Indian spinners.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
He said it was too soon to say what conditions Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium would throw up.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
"We won't know if it's going to swing until we are out there, so it's something that we will have to adapt to as bowlers here," said Southee.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
"The wicket's been under covers and may offer a little bit more, but who knows?"<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Southee believes the lack of training might be a blessing in disguise for the bowlers, who will return fresh for the final match.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
"We are fortunate to have the last week, even the guys that weren't playing were able to train throughout the Test match," he said.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
"So for us bowlers it's nice to give the body a bit of a rest and freshen up ahead of another Test match... Yes, you haven't had the ideal preparation, but there is no excuse."<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Top-ranked New Zealand, who beat India to win the inaugural World Test Championship in June, have never won a Test series in India.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
They last won a five-day game in India in 1988, also in Mumbai.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
"Always nice to hear of the history of the game and New Zealand doing well here," said Southee.<\/p>\r\n\r\n