Photo via The Times of India

Gill opts to bowl, Siraj and Kuldeep miss out as India go with four pacers vs NZ

India’s opening ODI against New Zealand at Eden Park in Auckland saw a tactical shift as captain Shubman Gill opted for a pace-dominated attack, selecting four fast bowlers and two all-rounders for the match. Mohammed Siraj and Kuldeep Yadav were left out of the playing XI, with Anshul Kamboj, Auqib Nabi, Gurnoor Brar, Arshdeep Singh, and Naman Dhir making the cut alongside wicketkeeper KL Rahul and all-rounder Axar Patel.

Gill explained the decision, citing the overcast conditions and the importance of setting a target early, while also framing the series as critical practice for India’s preparations ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa.

New Zealand made a key change at the top of the order, with Tim Seifert replacing Devon Conway, who remains sidelined recovering from a head injury sustained during training. Santner confirmed Conway’s progress but noted he would rest for the opener, with Seifert partnering Will Young and Henry Nicholls in the top three.

The match began later than scheduled after a 20-minute delay to the toss, which took place at 2:50 PM local time, with play starting at 3:10 PM.

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