India’s ODI squad drops its right‑arm pacer after the BCCI confirmed that Prasidh Krishna’s hamstring will keep him sidelined for the entire five‑match run against New Zealand.
The right‑arm, who hasn’t taken a competitive wicket since the West Indies clash, will be missing until his workload rebuilds. BCCI chief, Rahul Sharma, said the injury needs “additional time” before he can return.
With Krishna out, the spotlight shifts to Mohammed Siraj, who gets a quick nod for the opening match and then joins India A for the third four‑day game against New Zealand A. Siraj’s recent form, 5/28 in the middle‑overs, gives him a chance to hit the reset button.
Nitish Kumar Reddy stays in the ODI camp for the first game but will later head to India A for match practice ahead of the Test series that starts on November 19. Reddy’s presence keeps the bowling attack layered, but the absence of a pacer like Krishna creates a gap in pace depth.
The schedule still looks tight: first ODI in Auckland on November 4, then Wellington, Hamilton, Mount Maunganui, and back to Mount Maunganui for the fifth game. India’s strategy will hinge on a mix of seamers and spinners, with Siraj and Kuldeep Yadav stepping up.
Fans on social media have already been chanting #BringBackKrishna, but the selectors are focused on fielding a competitive squad that can win a series and secure a spot in the upcoming World Cup qualifiers.
The next hurdle is the two‑Test series starting 27 November in Christchurch. India will need a bowlers’ group that can adapt to New Zealand’s green‑ish pitches, and the absence of a hard‑hitting pacer makes that a pressing challenge.