The three-match Test series between India and New Zealand begins on Wednesday, October 16. The first Test will be played at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. Prior to this, the Indian team made a strong start to their home season, defeating Bangladesh 2-0 in the Test series and 3-0 in the T20 series. India’s next target will be to clean sweep the Kiwi team 3-0 and take another step towards the ICC World Test Championship 2024 final.
As for the playing XI for this match, there might be one change in the team led by captain Rohit Sharma. While Rohit is unlikely to make any changes to the batting order, there could be a shift in the bowling department. Instead of three fast bowlers, India might opt for two fast bowlers and three spinners in the playing XI. During Monday’s practice session, it appeared that Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja could be joined by Kuldeep Yadav in the playing XI.
If Kuldeep plays, Mohammed Siraj might have to sit out. Jasprit Bumrah and Aakash Deep are expected to take on the pace bowling responsibilities. Aakash Deep played in both Test matches against Bangladesh. Although Kuldeep has not had a chance to play in the Test matches in Chennai or his home ground in Kanpur, there are now expectations for him to be included in this match. Aside from this potential change, no other alterations are anticipated in the team.
India’s Probable Playing XI:
Rohit Sharma (Captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant (Wicketkeeper), Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, and Aakash Deep.