India will look to secure the ODI series against New Zealand when the teams meet in the fourth match on Friday, November 13. With India leading 2-0 after the third game was abandoned due to rain, a win would give the team an unassailable lead.
New Delhi: India will have to make at least three changes to their playing XI after Shubman Gill, KL Rahul and Anshul Kamboj left the squad to join preparations for the upcoming Test series. Their absence has opened up a key selection question over who will partner Rohit Sharma at the top of the order.
Ruturaj Gaikwad and Ishan Kishan are the two leading candidates, with Gaikwad reportedly emerging as the frontrunner.
According to a report in The Times of India, the team management may prefer Gaikwad as Kishan is likely to take over wicketkeeping duties in Rahul’s absence. Keeping wickets for 50 overs before opening the innings could add to Kishan’s workload. The management may instead use him in the middle order, where he has also gained experience in domestic cricket.
Gaikwad has considerable experience as an opener, although he has been used in the middle order in recent ODI appearances. His familiarity with the role makes him a strong option alongside Rohit.
Meanwhile, fast bowler Gurnoor Brar could be released from the ODI squad after the fourth match, particularly if India clinch the series. He may be required for preparations ahead of the Test series, where his height and bowling style could help Indian batters prepare for New Zealand’s tall fast bowlers. However, no final decision has been confirmed.
India will also need to adjust their bowling combination following the squad changes. The fourth ODI will test the team’s ability to maintain its momentum while giving opportunities to players coming into the side.
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