India Tour of New Zealand: India vs New Zealand First ODI in Auckland on November 4, 2026

"Literally belies logic for me" - Former KKR player launches a massive rant on India's playing XI for IND vs NZ 2026 1st ODI

Former cricketer Murali Kartik slammed India team management's decision-making as they dropped several big names from the playing XI for the series opener against New Zealand.

India tour of New Zealand: India vs New Zealand first ODI in Auckland on November 4, 2026

There was no Mohammed Siraj in the line-up with Anshul Kamboj, Auqib Nabi, Gurnoor Brar and Arshdeep Singh set to share the bowling responsibilities

Shubman Gill opts to bowl, Mohammed Siraj and Kuldeep Yadav miss out as India go with four pacers against New Zealand

India's decision to field first in the ODI against New Zealand was made after winning the toss. Captain Shubman Gill explained that they opted for a pace-heavy attack to exploit the conditions. New Zealand made changes to their lineup, with Tim Seifert replacing Devon Conway due to a head injury. The toss was delayed, and the match's live action commenced shortly afterward.

Why is Mohammed Siraj not playing India's first ODI against New Zealand in Auckland?

With the Indian team taking on New Zealand in the first ODI of the ongoing series between the two sides, let us have a look at why star pacer Mohammed Siraj is not featuring for the Men in Blue as the two sides meet in Auckland for the clash.

India Star Benched Again As Shubman Gill Makes Bold Playing XI Call For 1st ODI vs New Zealand

Kuldeep Yadav, Nitish Kumar Reddy, and Mohammed Siraj were arguably the biggest names not to make the playing XI for the first ODI against New Zealand.

IND vs NZ: Five Star Players Who Could Miss Out On India's Playing XI

Mohammed Siraj could miss the opening ODI as he is currently involved with India A and is expected to reach Auckland on November 4.