CricBengal.com | Sports Desk
India’s preparations for the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand are gathering momentum, with Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and fast bowler Auqib Nabi attracting attention during a training session in Auckland.
Kohli faced a challenging spell from Nabi, whose ability to swing the ball in both directions tested the experienced batter in the nets. Rohit, meanwhile, continued working on his batting as he looked to adapt to New Zealand’s pace and conditions.
The five-match ODI series begins on November 4, with the opening match scheduled in Auckland.
Nabi Challenges Kohli with Swing
India’s pace bowlers were put through their paces during the training session, with Nabi among those who caught the eye.
The right-arm pacer troubled Kohli with deliveries moving both ways. The batter appeared uncomfortable on a few occasions, edging deliveries outside off stump and getting struck on the pads while attempting to negotiate the inswing.
Kohli, however, gradually settled into his rhythm and produced several confident strokes later in the session.
Facing challenging bowling in practice could help the former India captain prepare for the conditions expected during the New Zealand series.
Rohit Works on His Batting Rhythm
Rohit Sharma also spent time in the nets as he continued his preparations for the ODI assignment.
The experienced opener appeared cautious at the start, focusing on adjusting to the pace and movement of the deliveries. He later looked more settled as the session progressed.
Both Rohit and Kohli remain important figures in India’s plans in the 50-over format, particularly with the 2027 ODI World Cup approaching.
Auqib Nabi Gets an Earlier Opportunity
Nabi’s presence in the first part of the series follows a change in India’s squad.
He was initially selected for the fourth and fifth ODIs, but was added to the squad for the first three matches after Prasidh Krishna was ruled out of the entire series with a hamstring injury.
Nabi recently impressed for India A against New Zealand A, taking six wickets across both innings of a first-class match. The upcoming series will provide him with another opportunity to strengthen his position in the national setup.
India and New Zealand ODI Series Schedule
The first ODI will be played in Auckland on November 4. The second match is scheduled for November 7 in Wellington, followed by the third in Hamilton on November 10.
The final two matches will take place in Mount Maunganui on November 13 and 15.
Shubman Gill will captain India in the first three matches, while Shreyas Iyer is set to lead the side in the final two ODIs.
CricBengal Analysis
New Zealand’s conditions could present a significant challenge for India’s batters, particularly against swing and pace. Kohli and Rohit’s preparation will therefore be closely watched ahead of the opening match.
For Auqib Nabi, the series represents an opportunity to make an impression at a higher level. His ability to move the ball could offer India an additional pace-bowling option.
However, practice performances are only an indication of preparation. The real test will come when the teams take the field on November 4.
Sources: Sangbad Pratidin, BCCI, ICC
https://www.sangbadpratidin.in/
Publisher: CricBengal.com
