India vs New Zealand: 3 changes in the India Playing 11

India is set to face New Zealand in the second Test at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune, starting October 24. The hosts suffered a heavy defeat in the first Test at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, where they were bowled out for just 46 runs—India's lowest total at home. The New Zealand bowlers capitalized on the overcast conditions, delivering a stunning performance that left the Indian batting lineup reeling. Following their historic first innings, where New Zealand posted an imposing total of 402 runs, they secured a massive lead of 356 runs. In their second innings, India could only muster a target of 107 runs, and it took less than a session on Day 5 for Tom Latham's side to clinch victory. This win marked a significant achievement for New Zealand, as it was their first Test victory in India in 36 years.

As the teams prepare for the second Test in Pune, the pitch is expected to be more conducive to spin bowling. This characteristic could play a crucial role in determining the match's outcome, especially given the spin-friendly conditions that have historically favored Indian bowlers. With the series tied at 1-1, India will be eager to bounce back and assert their dominance on home soil, while New Zealand will aim to build on their recent success and secure another win.

India vs New Zealand: Predicted India Playing 11 for the 2nd Test

1. Rohit Sharma (C)
2. Yashasvi Jaiswal
3. Shubman Gill
4. Virat Kohli
5. Sarfaraz Khan
6. Rishabh Pant/Dhruv Jurel (wk)
7. Ravindra Jadeja
8. Washington Sundar/Ravichandran Ashwin
9. Kuldeep Yadav
10. Akash Deep
11. Jasprit Bumrah

Ravichandran Ashwin had a disappointing outing in the IND vs NZ first Test, struggling with both bat and ball. Despite the presence of three left-handed batters in the Blackcaps lineup, he was not utilized much in the bowling attack. Reports indicate that Ashwin may miss the second Test due to fitness concerns, prompting the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to add Washington Sundar to the squad ahead of the match in Pune.

Sundar is coming off a stellar performance in the Ranji Trophy 2024-25, where he scored an impressive 152 runs against Delhi while batting at number three. Following the match, he expressed his belief that he is a top-order batter. Sundar previously made his mark in the Gabba Test against Australia, where he played a crucial role, taking three wickets and contributing valuable runs with scores of 66 and 22 while batting lower down the order. His recent form and versatility as a bowling all-rounder could provide India with a much-needed boost as they look to bounce back in the series against New Zealand.

Mohammed Siraj struggled during the Test series against Bangladesh, managing only four wickets across two matches while bowling 41.1 overs. Expectations were high for his performance in the first Test against New Zealand, but he fell short, taking just two wickets. With Akash Deep impressing by claiming five wickets in the Bangladesh series, India may consider giving him a chance in the Pune Test.

Notably, Siraj has played 13 Tests on home soil, capturing only 19 wickets at an average of 36.15. In contrast, Akash Deep has made a strong impression in his three Tests, taking eight wickets in just five innings. In the first Test against New Zealand, Siraj took two wickets in the first innings but failed to secure any in the second. His performance was particularly disappointing when the team needed him most, as New Zealand required only 107 runs to win. Given these statistics and recent form, the Indian team management may be tempted to replace Siraj with Akash Deep for the upcoming match in Pune. This change could provide the bowling attack with a fresh perspective as they look to bounce back in the series.

Sarfaraz Khan delivered a stellar performance, scoring 150 runs in the second innings as India sought to overcome a daunting deficit of 356 runs against New Zealand. He formed vital partnerships with Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant, helping India surpass the Kiwi lead, although they ultimately set a target of just 107 runs. Sarfaraz showcased his skills brilliantly, handling the pacers with confidence and executing exquisite sweeps against the spinners.

Given his impressive form, KL Rahul may find himself making way for Shubman Gill, who is expected to return after recovering from a stiff neck sustained before the first Test. Rahul's performance in the series has been underwhelming; he was dismissed for a duck and scored just 12 runs in the first Test. Since the conclusion of the 2023 World Cup, he hasn't had significant game time, though he did score a century during the Test series in South Africa before his injury. According to Rohit Sharma's statements, India may opt to include Gill in the playing XI, banking on his ability to contribute valuable runs in the middle order. This decision could bolster the team's batting lineup as they aim for a comeback in the series.