The Indian selectors have announced the ODI team for the first 3 One day International matches to be played against New Zealand from 16th December in Dharmashala. There are some surprising exclusions in the team with Ashwin, Jadeja and Shami rested because of hectic Test series coming up against England and Australia.
The opening slot in this team goes to Rohit Sharma. The other option for opener’s slot is Mandeep Singh. With Shikhar Dhawan and KL Rahul being injured it is a great chance for Mandeep Singh to grab his chance and play well as an opener in India’s senior team. The number 3 position is a guaranteed spot for Virat Kohli as he is the best choice in any format.
Manish Pandey who did well in India A series in Australia has got a chance. His performance has been brilliant and has been rewarded with selection in the team for the first 3 ODI matches. Kedar Jadhav who has done well in India A might get a chance in playing XI. While Suresh Raina has made a comeback into the Indian senior team and will try to regain his place in the team . Rahane also makes a cut into ODI team.
The fight for all-rounder’s slot is between Hardik Pandya, who was dropped from Zimbabwe series, and Axar Patel who is an incumbent. Both of them have done well in the Australia A series.
The team is captained by MS Dhoni who will be returning after the T20 series against West Indies. The new face included in the team is Jayant Yadav. Having said that, Hardik Pandya, Mandeep Singh and Jayant are yet to play ODI matches for India.
The fast bowling department includes Umesh Yadav, Dhawal Kulkarni,Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya. While spinners include Amit Mishra, Axar Patel and Jayant Yadav.
Suresh Raina, who has made a comeback into the Indian senior team, has been in poor form especially in 2016. He has scored only 1 century in last 26 matches.
With the Indian team resting seniors like Ashwin, Jadeja and Shami it is a chance for the youngsters to prove their mettle and be a permanent member in ODI cricket.
With new faces in the Indian team for the first 3 matches against New Zealand, it is an opportunity for them to play with fearless attitude and gain more confidence.