India vs New Zealand 2nd ODI 2026: Rajkot Hosts Crucial Series Decider
The Indian cricket team, led by captain Shubman Gill, has arrived in Rajkot for the second ODI against New Zealand. This match holds significant importance as India seeks to secure the series victory in the three-game contest. The action unfolds on Wednesday, with fans eagerly anticipating a thrilling encounter.
Injury Woes Hit Indian Camp
India faces challenges with key players sidelined due to injuries. Before the series began, wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant suffered an injury, ruling him out. Adding to the team's troubles, all-rounder Washington Sundar has also been ruled out of the remaining two matches. In response, the selectors have called up Delhi's Ayush Badoni as a replacement.
However, sources indicate that Badoni is unlikely to make his debut in this match. Instead, the team management is expected to hand Nitish Kumar Reddy his maiden India cap. Reddy will step in as Sundar's replacement, bringing fresh energy to the squad.
Team Strategy and Predicted Line-ups
In the first ODI, India deployed a balanced attack with three pacers and three spinners. For the second game, there is speculation about potential changes. Observers are curious to see if left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh will find a place in the playing XI. His inclusion could add variety to the bowling attack.
Here are the predicted XIs for both teams:
New Zealand Probable XI
- Devon Conway
- Henry Nicholls
- Will Young
- Daryl Mitchell
- Glenn Phillips
- Mitchell Hay (wk)
- Michael Bracewell (c)
- Zakary Foulkes
- Kristian Clarke
- Kyle Jamieson
- Adithya Ashok
India Probable XI
- Shubman Gill (c)
- Rohit Sharma
- Virat Kohli
- Shreyas Iyer
- KL Rahul (wk)
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Nitish Kumar Reddy
- Harshit Rana
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Mohammed Siraj
- Prasidh Krishna
The stage is set for an exciting clash in Rajkot. With the series on the line, both teams will give their all to claim victory. Cricket enthusiasts across India are tuning in to witness this high-stakes encounter.
