Kane Williamson relishing challenge against India's 'fantastic' bowling unit

Williamson believes India's bowling attack is well-balanced and will pose a big threat to the New Zealand batting order, with the talent and depth in both their pace and spin departments.

In an interview ahead of the inaugural ICC World Test Championship final, Williamson said, "They have got a fantastic attack. Brilliant, obviously a brilliant side. Throughout we have seen the depth they have as well, certainly saw that in Australia as well.

"A lot of strengths in their fast bowling and spin department. So yeah, a brilliant side, ranked right up the top, which is fair enough and an exciting opportunity for us to be involved in the final taking on the best."

Williamson is also looking forward to battling it out against opposition skipper Virat Kohli, a player against whom he has enjoyed numerous contests in his career.

"Over the years, we have played against each other in so many different levels and competitions and have known each other fairly well. So, it will be quite cool walking out there, doing the toss and having a bit of contact in the first Test Championship Final."

The New Zealand skipper feels a sense of pride and excitement in his team being one of the finalists of the first-ever World Test Championship final.

"It is exciting. We are looking forward to that when we are taking on the top-ranked side in the world. We know how strong they are and the depth they have. So exciting to be playing against each other at a neutral venue."

The maiden ICC World Test Championship final will get underway at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton from 18 June.