NZ vs IND 2022: India’s predicted XI for the first ODI
Sanju Samson is likely to be included in the playing XI.
All-rounders: Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur and Deepak Chahar
Washington Sundar marked his return from injury with the ODI series against South Africa. He was impressive with the ball as picked three wickets in two ODIs at an economy rate of 5.76. Playing Sundar will give the skipper an off-spin bowling option in the middle as going with only five bowling options might backfire.
Shardul Thakur is likely to be the second all-rounder in India’s playing XI as the playing conditions in Auckland are likely to suit ‘Lord’s’ bowling style. His handy batting lower down the order gives him an edge over other players in the squad. Shardul Thakur had a strong showing against the Proteas as well as he bagged three wickets in two games and smashed 33 runs in the only innings he played.
Fit-again Deepak Chahar is a prolific wicket-taker with the new ball as he primarily relies on the swing. He is likely to handle the new ball duties in the absence of senior pro Bhuveneshwar Kumar.
