Chennai, Oct 25 (IANS) Selection committee chairman Krishnamachari Srikkanth hailed the Indian team's bench strength and expressed confidence that India will emerge victorious in the forthcoming three-Test series against visiting New Zealand.

Speaking on the sidelines of the selection meeting that picked the 15-member Indian squad, Srikkanth said: "The team had performed extremely well against the Australians in both the Tests and One-day series. The Bangalore Test (victory) was icing on the cake."

He was referring to the 2-0 series win against Australia and specifically to the convincing seven-wicket victory in the second Test at Bangalore.

"Our junior rung players have gelled well with the seniors while our bowlers have done a remarkable job. Going by this, we have picked the team for all the three Tests against New Zealand. I am confident that our players will continue their victory march."

"Our bench strength is good. This is a good sign for Indian cricket. Like it is said that the may best player win, I must say let the best team (India) win," Srikkanth said.

The squad for the five-match One-day series against the Kiwis, beginning November 28, will be selected at a later date, he added.