IND vs NZ 1st ODI: Why India Didn't Field Arshdeep Singh in the Playing XI? Explained

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IND vs NZ: The three-match ODI series between India and New Zealand kicked off on Sunday in Vadodara, but one of the most notable omissions from India's playing XI was left-arm quick Arshdeep Singh.

With

Jasprit Bumrah rested for the ODI leg, many expected Arshdeep to slot straight into the attack. Instead, India opted for a different bowling combination, leaving fans puzzled over his absence.

India captain Shubman Gill, speaking at the toss, clarified that the team was eager to experiment with combinations, keeping in mind the expected dew later in the evening. On a surface known for its two-paced nature rather than high totals, India went with three specialist pacers - Prasidh Krishna, Harshit Rana and Mohammed Siraj - along with a trio of spinners in Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar.

The pitch at the Vadodara Stadium typically rewards bowlers who hit consistent lengths rather than pure swing bowlers, and the team management appeared to prioritize variation and balance. With six bowling options already packed into the XI, including both left- and right-arm spin, there simply wasn't room for another fast bowler unless someone like Prasidh Krishna sat out.

Based on current indications, Arshdeep's exclusion was purely tactical, not injury-related. The BCCI has reported no fitness concerns, and the 25-year-old is available for selection. The decision aligns with India's ongoing rotation policy, which has been evident across formats. Ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup, India are keen to build a deeper pool of match-ready fast bowlers, giving extended opportunities to emerging names.

Despite the logic behind the move, the decision sparked debate among fans who believe Arshdeep's new-ball swing and dependable death overs make him an asset in ODIs. However, with two matches still left in the series, Arshdeep remains firmly in contention to feature as India continue evaluating the best combination for home conditions.