Rohit Sharma Shocks Fans with India's Surprising Playing XI

Synopsis: In a surprising turn of events, India captain Rohit Sharma announced an unexpected playing XI for the first Test against New Zealand, omitting key players Shubman Gill and Akash Deep. Sarfaraz Khan and Kuldeep Yadav took their places as India opted to bat first under damp conditions at Chinnaswamy Stadium. This article delves into the reasons behind these changes and the team's strategy moving forward in the series.

Shubman Gill was unavailable for selection in India vs New Zealand first Test and Rohit Sharma in the image

India's Surprising Playing XI for the 1st Test

The Playing XI for the first Test against New Zealand, presented by skipper Rohit Sharma was something everyone in cricket did not expect, as there were two surprises- he left out Shubman Gill and Akash Deep. The match was scheduled at the Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, where after having no play on Day 1 due to rain, the teams finally managed to have the toss at 8:45 am to start Day 2 early.

Two big changes for India

The side that has just completed a 2-0 Test series win over Bangladesh has suffered two major changes to the squad. Shubman Gill was missing with neck stiffness, although he did attend the stadium and had been carrying discomfort for several days.

There was also a bowling change in the bowling line-up, with Kuldeep Yadav replacing Akash Deep. Expecting a third fast bowler would come in to strengthen the attack in the conditions that were wet and overcast, India went ahead with three spinners.

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Strategy behind this decision

Rohit Sharma said that the team management thought a great deal before finalising the playing XI since more than two days had passed since the field had been covered and was expected to be damp. Sharma emphasized that runs must be put on the board early so they do not have to bat last on a possibly deteriorating pitch.

Reflecting on the last game against Bangladesh, which India won by producing a tough show despite having several interruptions by rains, Rohit was more than confident with his team's performances against New Zealand.

More Tests

India and New Zealand are scheduled to have two more Tests. The two will clash in Pune from 24-28 October, while another match has been scheduled in Mumbai from 1-5 November.