India’s Probable Playing XI vs New Zealand for First Test in Bengaluru

The Indian cricket team is set to kick off a three-match Test series against New Zealand at home, with the first match commencing at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on October 16. Currently leading the World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle, India aims to secure victory in all three Tests against the Black Caps, which will solidify their chances of reaching the tournament's final.

On the other hand, New Zealand has faced challenges recently, participating in three Test matches in the subcontinent. They lost two Tests against Sri Lanka and had a washout against Afghanistan in Greater Noida last month. Given the recent performances of both teams, India is considered the favorite to win the first Test in Bengaluru.

This article will outline India’s probable playing XI for the first Test against New Zealand at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium.

Openers: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rohit Sharma (Captain)

Yashasvi Jaiswal has been in outstanding form during the recently concluded two-match Test series against Bangladesh, scoring two fifties that contributed significantly to India's victory in the second match. His aggressive playing style and consistency at the top of the order make him a vital asset against New Zealand.

Rohit Sharma, despite not being at his best with the bat against Bangladesh, showcased his captaincy skills effectively. The Indian captain will be eager to improve his batting performance in the upcoming series against a highly skilled New Zealand team. His experience and ability to build innings will be crucial as India looks to establish a solid foundation.

Middle Order: Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant (Wicketkeeper)

Shubman Gill performed admirably in the previous series against Bangladesh, and he will aim to maintain his good form against the Kiwis. His solid technique and ability to rotate the strike make him a crucial member of the middle order.

Virat Kohli, one of the most prominent figures in Indian cricket, is keen to find his rhythm after a lackluster run in the longest format over the past year. He made amends with some decent innings in the second Test against Bangladesh but is yet to score a substantial hundred. Kohli's experience and ability to anchor the innings will be essential against New Zealand's potent bowling attack.

KL Rahul's return to form, highlighted by a crucial fifty in the second Test against Bangladesh, will bolster India's middle order. His experience and adaptability to different situations will be vital as India faces the challenge of New Zealand's bowling lineup.

Rishabh Pant, making a strong comeback to Test cricket, scored a century against Bangladesh, proving his value both as a batsman and as a wicketkeeper. His explosive batting and sharp reflexes behind the stumps will be instrumental against New Zealand, providing India with both stability and aggression.

All-Rounders: Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin

Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin have been stalwarts in the Indian lineup for years, consistently performing with both bat and ball. Their ability to contribute in all departments makes them invaluable assets, especially in home conditions. Both players showcased their skill set against Bangladesh, and their experience will be crucial in challenging conditions against the Black Caps.

As all-rounders, Jadeja and Ashwin will need to play pivotal roles in supporting the batting lineup while also being the primary wicket-taking options with the ball. Their understanding of the game and ability to read situations will be crucial against a New Zealand side that has historically been competitive in Test matches.

Bowlers: Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep

With a keen focus on preparing for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy series against Australia, the Indian team management will look to give game time to several fast bowlers against New Zealand. Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj have both proven successful in Australian conditions in recent years and will lead the pace attack.

Bumrah’s unique bowling action and ability to generate pace and bounce make him a challenging bowler on any surface, while Siraj’s knack for picking up early wickets adds depth to the attack. Their performances will be critical in setting the tone for the series.

The inclusion of Akash Deep in the lineup could prove crucial as he aims to establish himself in the Test format. His recent form in domestic cricket has earned him recognition, and the opportunity to play against a quality side like New Zealand could be a significant step in his career. Akash's ability to bowl effectively in varying conditions will be essential for India as they seek to dismantle the Kiwis’ batting order.

With the first Test against New Zealand just around the corner, the Indian team is poised to put forth a competitive playing XI at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium. The combination of in-form players and experienced veterans presents a well-rounded squad capable of taking on the challenges posed by the Black Caps.

India’s aim will be to establish dominance from the outset and build momentum for the rest of the series. As both teams step onto the field, all eyes will be on their performances, particularly how key players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Jasprit Bumrah handle the pressure and set the stage for a successful campaign in the Test arena.