In the opening ODI against New Zealand, Indian captain Shubman Gill won the toss and chose to bowl first at the Vadodara International Cricket Stadium in Kotambi. Unfortunately, Rishabh Pant, who was the second-choice wicketkeeper-batsman, has been ruled out for the entire three-match series due to a side strain (oblique muscle tear). Dhruv Jurel has been brought in as his replacement. Fans are eager to see the exquisite batting from Indian stalwarts like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma.
On the flip side, Kristian Clarke is poised to make his ODI debut for the Black Caps. After the toss, Gill mentioned how participation in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy has kept many players in form.
“Our aim is to try out different combinations to see what works best. The pitch looks promising, and batting may become easier as the moisture settles in. The Vijay Hazare Trophy has really helped players stay in match shape. We’re entering this game with a robust bowling lineup, featuring three spinners: Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, and Ravindra Jadeja,” Gill explained.
New Zealand’s captain, Michael Bracewell, expressed confidence in his team’s preparation at the venue.
“We would have preferred to bowl first as well. The team has had ample time to adjust to the conditions here. The facilities are top-notch, and this tour is vital for us. Representing New Zealand is always an honor, and playing in similar subcontinental conditions before the World Cup is crucial. The pitch seems balanced but slightly slower than what we’re used to back home. Kristian Clarke and Adithya Ashok are making their way into the lineup,” Bracewell stated.
IND vs NZ 1st ODI: Confirmed Playing XI
India: Shubman Gill (C), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (WK), Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Harshit Rana, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, and Prasidh Krishna.
New Zealand: Devon Conway, Henry Nicholls, Will Young, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Hay (WK), Michael Bracewell (C), Zakary Foulkes, Kristian Clarke, Kyle Jamieson, and Adithya Ashok.