Whenever Arshdeep Singh has been given an opportunity in India’s jersey, he has delivered and proven his ability. Yet, across formats, be it T20Is or ODIs, the Indian bowler continues to be viewed as a backup option by the selectors. The same situation unfolded in the first ODI against New Zealand, where Arshdeep once again failed to find a place in the playing XI.
Arshdeep overlooked again as India fields six bowlers
Despite India naming a playing XI with six bowling options, Arshdeep Singh was left out. Instead, Prasidh Krishna and Harshit Rana, both of whom struggled during the recent ODI series against South Africa, retained their spots. India captain Shubman Gill won the toss and opted to bowl first, setting the stage for questions around team selection.
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As expected, Yashasvi Jaiswal was dropped following Shubman Gill’s return to the side. Gill opened the innings alongside Rohit Sharma, while Virat Kohli took his familiar No. 3 position. Shreyas Iyer, having recovered from injury, returned to the playing XI and slotted in at No. 4.
Washington preferred over Nitish as all-rounder choice
One of the key selection debates centred around the all-rounder’s slot—whether the team management would opt for Nitish Kumar Reddy or Washington Sundar. Ultimately, the team placed its faith in Washington Sundar, who managed 13 runs across two matches against South Africa, ahead of Nitish. Sundar will bat in the middle order alongside KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja.
Kuldeep Yadav was picked as the specialist spinner, joining Jadeja and Washington to form a three-spin option. The pace attack comprises three fast bowlers. Senior pacer Mohammed Siraj has made a comeback and will lead the attack in Jasprit Bumrah’s absence, with Prasidh Krishna and Harshit Rana supporting him.
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However, Arshdeep Singh’s omission has not gone unnoticed, and cricket fans will be keenly watching how his absence impacts India’s performance in the series.
India’s Playing XI
Shubman Gill, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja, Harshit Rana, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna
