ICC World Cup 2019: Match 18, India vs New Zealand – India’s Predicted Playing XI; It has been a brilliant campaign so far for the Indian National Cricket Team. They have outsmarted South Africans and also defeated the defending champions Australia in their previous clash. Now, they will be taking on New Zealand, who are leading the table with 3 victories in their kitty.
India’s Predicted Playing XI:
1. KL Rahul:
Well, this is very unfortunate for the Indian team to have KL Rahul opening the innings instead of Shikhar Dhawan. India looked settle with Dhawan at opening slot and KL Rahul at number 4. But, the thumb injury to Shikhar changed the complexion of the batting lineup.
2. Rohit Sharma:
The vice-captain of India will open the innings alongside KL Rahul. He is in a superb touch with his willow for the team. Rohit Sharma would be hoping to improve his record against Kiwis as well.
3. Virat Kohli:
Of course, a sure shot player in the side. The skipper would love to repeat the winning formulae once again in the tournament. Besides his captaincy, a lot of expectations will be on his batting.
4. Vijay Shankar:
The youngster could well make his world cup debut for the Indian team. He would take the number 4 role for the team, as KL Rahul moved to the opening slot.
5. Mahendra Singh Dhoni:
Yet another stalwart player, who will be crucial for India. He got the knack of scoring runs and also got the ability to tackle the best bowlers in the world. His presence itself a big thing for the Indian team.
6. Kedar Jadhav:
So far, he has been used very less in the batting department. However, Virat Kohli made him roll his arm for a few overs in both the matches. The flamboyant cricketer can deliver when it matters for the team.
7. Hardik Pandya:
The all-rounder Hardik Pandya has been a brilliant addition for the team. He would certainly be the major player for the team against the New Zealand side. Hardik got a brilliant record against Kiwis.
8. Yuzvendra Chahal:
Chahal was their outstanding performer in the last couple of World Cup games. They would once again ask to deliver the goods against tough New Zealand side, who played attacking cricket.
9. Mohammed Shami:
India could bring in Shami into the side in place of Kuldeep Yadav. He has been their best bowler and got a blistering record against New Zealand side. Besides that, the current conditions in England are suiting the fast bowlers.
10. Bhuvneshwar Kumar:
Kumar showed what he is capable of doing against the Australian team. He would be the key player for India with the new ball and at the death overs.
11. Jasprit Bumrah:
Can they afford to leave him? He has been their best player in the ranks and always an asset for the team. The fast bowler will be crucial for the team during their progress in the tournament.