NEW DELHI: India took on New Zealand in the first ODI of the three-game series on Sunday at the Kotambi Stadium in Vadodara. While the match itself was important, team selection became the biggest talking point even before the first ball was bowled. Fans quickly noticed that star pacer Arshdeep Singh was missing from India’s playing XI, and this led to a flood of funny memes on social media asking, “Where is Arshdeep Singh?”
Arshdeep Singh’s absence came as a surprise to many fans. The left-arm pacer had played in the final ODI against South Africa last month and was expected to feature again. Instead, Mohammed Siraj made his return to the ODI side after being out since November.As soon as the team was announced, social media platforms were filled with jokes and memes questioning Arshdeep’s omission.At the same time, there was good news for India as Shreyas Iyer made his return to international cricket after nearly two months.Iyer was named in the playing XI after recovering from an injury he suffered during the ODI series against Australia. The injury kept him out of action for a long time.He recently returned to competitive cricket during the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy, where he looked in good touch. His comeback added strength to India’s middle order.India captain Shubman Gill won the toss and chose to bowl first. Speaking at the toss, he explained the team’s approach and combination. Gill said, “We want to try different combinations and see how that works. Surface looks good, hope it will be easier to bat with the dew coming in in the second innings. Playing a bit of Vijay Hazare gives players some experience.” He also confirmed the bowling attack, adding, “Six bowlers – Washy, Kuldeep, Jadeja as spinners.”New Zealand captain Michael Bracewell shared his thoughts as well. He said his team would have preferred to bowl first too. “We would have bowled first. We have been here for a while, gotten used to the conditions. Great facilities here. Big series for here. Proud to play for NZ every time. Playing in these conditions before the WC is a huge advantage,” Bracewell said. He also added, “Great to play in front of big crowds. Looks like a decent wicket, maybe a bit lower than wickets in NZ. We have got Kristian Clarke, Adi Ashok.”
