India won the first ODI at Eden Park and now prepare for the second match at Hnry Stadium, Wellington on November 7. The squad selection for the upcoming encounter has drawn analysis from cricket commentator Aakash Chopra, who has outlined the likely adjustments India might make based on player availability and tactical balance.
Nitish Kumar Reddy remains unavailable for the second match, having also missed the opening ODI. However, Mohammed Siraj is now available after being absent from the first encounter. According to Chopra’s assessment, Siraj had completed his India A commitments before the first match and was therefore unavailable at that stage.
Chopra stated that one change to the playing XI appears almost certain. He explained that Auqib Nabi, who took 0 for 33 in six overs during the first ODI, is likely to be replaced. Chopra noted that the question centres on who will replace Nabi.
“Nitish Kumar Reddy isn’t available for this game, but he didn’t play the last match either. So you might see the same batting lineup. There’s definitely scope for one change,” Chopra said on his YouTube channel.
“Mohammed Siraj is available. Apparently, he wasn’t available in the previous match. So, guilty as charged,” he added.
Who could replace Auqib Nabi in India’s XI?
If Siraj returns to the XI, India would field four fast bowlers, which raises a tactical consideration about the balance of the side. Chopra suggested that Anshul Kamboj’s batting ability at number eight could allow India to accommodate Kuldeep Yadav at number nine if they choose to go that route. However, Chopra also acknowledged that Gurnoor Brar has performed well and would be difficult to leave out.
“He had come after finishing the India A match and was therefore not available, although no one said anything at the toss or in the post-match interview. If he is available, there could be one or two changes. One change could be that Auqib Nabi might go out, and Siraj might come in,” Chopra said.
What tactical options does India have with its bowling attack?
Chopra outlined the alternative scenario in which Kuldeep Yadav replaces Nabi instead of Siraj. In this case, India would maintain a different bowling combination. Chopra stressed that Nabi’s departure from the XI appears inevitable, with the team needing to decide whether Siraj or Kuldeep will be his replacement.
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“However, in such a scenario, will you want to play with four fast bowlers? That’s a big question that India will have to ask. Since Anshul Kamboj gives you batting at No. 8, if you are okay with it, can you play Kuldeep Yadav at No. 9? That’s the only other change I am thinking about. However, Gurnoor Brar has done very well. How will you make him sit out?” Chopra asked.
“Otherwise, Siraj might not come in place of Auqib Nabi. Kuldeep Yadav might come in place of him. That is also a possibility. One change is almost mandatory. Auqib will go out. Who will come in his place? It could be Siraj or Kuldeep. The team has to decide which way they wish to go,” he added.
