The highly anticipated first Test of the India vs New Zealand series kicked off on October 17, 2024, at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru after day one was completely washed out due to heavy rain. The second day began promptly, with India winning the toss and opting to bat first. However, a key change in India’s lineup raised eyebrows: Shubman Gill, one of India’s star batters, was absent from the playing XI.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed that Shubman Gill was ruled out of the first Test due to neck stiffness, a condition that prevented him from taking the field. In his place, Sarfaraz Khan, the prolific domestic run-scorer, was given a chance in the playing XI.
India Makes Two Key Changes
India’s captain Rohit Sharma announced two changes to the team that recently completed a 2-0 Test series win against Bangladesh. Apart from Shubman Gill, Akash Deep also missed out, with the latter being replaced by left-arm spinner Kuldeep Yadav. Despite Akash Deep’s impressive performance against Bangladesh, the decision to include Kuldeep is believed to be based on expectations that the pitch in Bengaluru could dry out and crack later in the match, favoring spin.
Sarfaraz Khan, known for his excellent domestic performances, gets an opportunity to showcase his skills on the international stage, while Kuldeep Yadav’s inclusion adds depth to India’s spin department, complementing veterans Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin.
Playing XI for 1st Test
India Lineup:
- Rohit Sharma (c)
- Yashasvi Jaiswal
- KL Rahul
- Virat Kohli
- Sarfaraz Khan
- Rishabh Pant (w)
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Ravichandran Ashwin
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Jasprit Bumrah
- Mohammed Siraj
New Zealand’s Lineup:
- Tom Latham (c)
- Devon Conway
- Will Young
- Rachin Ravindra
- Daryl Mitchell
- Tom Blundell (w)
- Glenn Phillips
- Matt Henry
- Tim Southee
- Ajaz Patel
- William O’Rourke
Shubman Gill’s Recent Form and Expected Return
Shubman Gill, who has been in sublime form, was expected to be a key figure for India in this series. His absence due to neck stiffness is a precautionary measure, and the team management will closely monitor his recovery for the remaining two Tests in the series. The Indian team will hope to have him back for the second Test, which is crucial in maintaining their momentum at home.
A Competitive Test Series Ahead
Following their dominant series wins against Bangladesh, India is looking to continue their impressive run in the longer format against New Zealand. The Black Caps, led by Tom Latham, are expected to pose a significant challenge, and this series marks an important contest as India aims to solidify their position in the World Test Championship standings.
Stay updated with all the cricketing action, follow Cricadium on WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter, Telegram and Instagram
