India could make a few interesting changes to their playing XI for the first ODI against New Zealand, with Shreyas Iyer reportedly likely to be rested for the series opener. The development could open the door for Ruturaj Gaikwad to bat at No. 4, while Naman Dhir is expected to feature in the middle order.
According to the latest team update, the Indian management is considering a combination that provides opportunities to players while maintaining a strong balance between batting and bowling.
Gaikwad could get an important opportunity at No. 4, a position that has been a significant talking point in India’s ODI setup. The right-handed batter will be eager to establish himself in the format and make a strong impression if selected.
Naman Dhir is another player to watch out for. He is expected to bat at No. 6, where his ability to accelerate the scoring could prove valuable during the middle and death overs.
Nitish Kumar Reddy is likely to be considered as the pace-bowling all-rounder, providing India with another option in both departments. His presence could allow the team management to maintain flexibility while selecting its bowling attack.
In the pace department, Mohammed Siraj, Gurnoor Brar and Anshul Kamboj are among the options being considered. Arshdeep Singh is also in contention for a place in the final XI. Kuldeep Yadav is expected to feature as the specialist spinner.
The likely batting combination includes Shubman Gill, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli at the top, followed by Gaikwad and KL Rahul. Axar Patel is also expected to play an important role in the lower middle order.
Meanwhile, there have been official changes to India’s squad ahead of the series. Prasidh Krishna has been ruled out because of a hamstring injury, while Auqib Nabi has been added to the squad for the first three ODIs.
The first ODI between India and New Zealand will take place on November 4 at Eden Park, Auckland, starting at 7:30 AM IST.
The final playing XI is yet to be officially announced, but the possible changes make India’s team selection an interesting storyline ahead of the series.
