Hardik Pandya Ruled Out, Shami & SKY In; Here's India's Playing XI Vs New Zealand

image-lnx96a1oPandya sustained an ankle injury during India's WC game vs BAN [AP]

In a massive setback for team India, ace all-rounder Hardik Pandya has been ruled out of the upcoming World Cup clash against New Zealand in Dharamsala due to injury. During India's fourth game against Bangladesh, Pandya sustained an ankle injury while attempting to stop the ball in his follow-through. After the unfortunate incident, the experienced campaigner walked off the field, not participating further in the game. 

As confirmed by the BCCI, Pandya is set to miss the upcoming clash against New Zealand. So, let's see what combination team India will prefer for this high-octane face-off in his absence. 


Suryakumar Yadav to replace Pandya at number 6

image-lny4ehkcSuryakumar Yadav is the frontrunner to bat at no 6 [AP]

As Pandya is unavailable, India have two batters, Ishan Kishan and Suryakumar Yadav, to replace him in the playing XI. However, India will likely prefer the latter over the former to bat at number six and ensure a fitting finish for the Men in Blue. 

So, India's top five will be unchanged, comprising Shubman Gill, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul at their preferred batting positions. 


Shardul Out, Shami in? 

image-lny4fefmMohammed Shami could replace Shardul Thakur for NZ game [AP]

As Pandya will miss out on selection for the New Zealand game, India will need a better candidate than Shardul Thakur to play as their fifth bowling option. Thakur has been sub-par with the ball in the World Cup, scalping only two wickets at a poor economy of 6. 

So, India might think to include one between Mohammed Shami and Ravichandran Ashwin to perform the role. 

However, considering the seam-friendly conditions in Dharamsala, the Indian management will likely prefer Shami over Ashwin for this match. 


India's Probable Playing XI Vs New Zealand

Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (WK), Suryakumar Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj