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'Literally belies logic for me' - Murali Kartik slams Team India's playing XI selection for 1st ODI vs New Zealand

Former India spinner Murali Kartik voiced strong criticism regarding the playing XI chosen for the first ODI against New Zealand at Eden Park in Auckland on November 4, 2026. He expressed confusion over the selection of Axar Patel and Naman Dhir as the spin duo, while questioning why Mohammed Siraj was omitted despite his regular status in the squad.

Kartik also pointed out the inconsistency of including Nitish Kumar Reddy in the squad for development purposes yet leaving him out of the match-day lineup.

The former Kolkata Knight Riders bowler placed particular emphasis on the continued exclusion of Kuldeep Yadav, who had been part of all three squad selections for the tour but remained on the bench. Kartik argued that the boundary dimensions at Eden Park were not comparable to large Australian grounds and should not have been a factor in sidelining the left-arm wrist-spinner, noting the potential negative impact on the player's mental state and confidence.

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