Shreyas Iyer Aims to Shine in ODI Captaincy Debut Against New Zealand
Iyer's Captaincy Debut Amid Squad Changes
Shreyas Iyer is set to make his debut as ODI captain, looking to make a statement with his batting as India faces New Zealand in the fourth match on Friday. Both teams are navigating significant squad adjustments due to the overlap of white-ball and red-ball commitments.
With India leading the five-match series 2-0, they are in a strong position to clinch the series, while New Zealand must win the remaining matches to salvage their chances after the third ODI was called off.
Iyer, who has struggled against short-pitched deliveries in this series, will lead India for the last two ODIs, stepping in as Shubman Gill departs to prepare for the Test series starting November 19.
K L Rahul and Anshul Kamboj have also exited the squad to sharpen their skills for the longer format.
This situation opens the door for players like Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan, and seasoned bowler Mohammed Siraj, who are eager for game time ahead of the Tests.
With Gill unavailable, the opening partnership alongside Rohit Sharma is uncertain, with Kishan and Gaikwad as potential candidates. Gaikwad has primarily batted in the middle order during his last five ODI appearances.
Rohit, aiming for a significant innings after scores of 0 and 23 in the series, will look to capitalize on this opportunity. Kishan, who missed much of the T20 series due to injury, is keen to contribute.
Kishan, a strong contender for the opening slot, previously scored a double century in this position four years ago. In Rahul's absence, he is also expected to take on wicketkeeping duties.
If Gaikwad remains in the middle order, he will seek to maximize his chance, especially after scoring a century and a half-century in his last four ODI innings, making him a suitable replacement.
In the bowling lineup, Siraj is anticipated to take the place of the in-form Kamboj. Although Siraj has struggled recently, his four wickets in an India A match last week should boost his confidence.
Interestingly, Siraj has yet to bowl in the ODI series, which raises questions given his capabilities.
Auqib Nabi, who performed well in the second ODI, along with Arshdeep Singh, will maintain their spots in the playing eleven.
On the New Zealand side, players like Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Nathan Smith, and Henry Nicholls have shifted their focus to Test cricket and will not participate in the ODIs.
Tim Seifert, the wicketkeeper-batter, commented on the changes, stating, "Whoever steps into their role will give their best, just as we will with the changes we face."
Similar to India, a significant portion of New Zealand's support staff has joined the Test squad in Wellington, reflecting the demanding schedule.
Seifert, who has not been a regular in ODIs, feels the pressure to perform, knowing his opportunities may be limited.
New Zealand has included uncapped Brett Randell, who has been recognized for his consistent domestic performances.
The Blackcaps are in a must-win situation, having not lost an ODI series at home in seven years, with their last defeat coming against India.
Squads:
New Zealand: Mitchell Santner (captain), Finn Allen, Michael Bracewell, Kristian Clarke, Jacob Duffy, Matt Fisher, Dean Foxcroft, Mitch Hay (WK), Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Nick Kelly, Brett Randell, Tim Seifert (WK), Will Young.
India: Shreyas Iyer (captain), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Tilak Varma, Ishan Kishan [WK, VC], Axar Patel, Naman Dhir, Auqib Nabi, Gurnoor Brar, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Arshdeep Singh, Kumar Kushagra [WK], Mohammed Siraj, Yash Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav.