Mohammed Siraj Seeks Batting Tips Ahead of ODI Series Against New Zealand

As the ODI series against New Zealand approaches, fast bowler Mohammed Siraj is working on his batting skills with guidance from Rohit Sharma. Rishabh Pant, however, faced an injury scare during practice, raising concerns among the team staff. The first match is set to take place at the Baroda Cricket Association Stadium, with the series promising exciting cricket action.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 10, 2026, 17:47 IST

Siraj Prepares for ODI Series with Batting Practice

Fast bowler Mohammed Siraj is determined to secure his spot in the ODI team by enhancing his batting skills. Ahead of the ODI series against New Zealand starting on Sunday, he sought batting advice from former captain Rohit Sharma on Saturday. Meanwhile, Rishabh Pant required some treatment after sustaining an injury during the practice session.

As Siraj stepped up to bat, he attempted to hit the ball hard but missed, prompting Rohit, who was waiting outside the nets, to offer him some valuable tips. During the alternative practice session, Siraj focused solely on improving his batting.

Several other members of the Indian team also participated in the practice session. Shreyas Iyer, who captained Mumbai in a narrow one-run defeat against Punjab in the Vijay Hazare Trophy on Thursday, practiced batting alongside KL Rahul, while Pant and Ravindra Jadeja spent ample time in the nets.

Siraj, Iyer, and Pant arrived here after competing in the Vijay Hazare Trophy with their respective state teams, having last played in the 50-over tournament on January 8.

However, Pant experienced discomfort after sustaining an injury above his waist while batting against India's throwdown specialists, leading to immediate concern from team staff and head coach Gautam Gambhir, who rushed to check on him.

After receiving initial treatment, Pant left the ground at the BCA Stadium, where Indian captain Shubman Gill was seen engaged in a lengthy discussion with selection committee chairman Ajit Agarkar.

The first match of the three-match ODI series between India and New Zealand is set to take place on Sunday at the Baroda Cricket Association Stadium. The second ODI will be held on January 14 in Rajkot, followed by the third ODI on January 18 in Indore.