India would be eyeing to repeat their performances in the second ODI after a strong show in the series opener against New Zealand. As Indian bowlers bowled stupendously in the first ODI at Napier, the batting line-up remained untested largely. However, after being one-up in the 5-match ODI series, it will be interesting to see if there are any changes made.

Skipper Virat Kohli would be tempted to play the same eleven, given how their performances were. The bowling department did their part well; whereas, the batting department barring Rohit Sharma remained untested. IND vs NZ 1st ODI 2019 Video Highlights: Disciplined India Beat New Zealand by 8 Wickets, Take 1-0 Lead in the Series.

Both Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma could continue to open the batting, with skipper Virat Kohli coming in next. Ambati Rayudu had a brief stay on the crease in the low-scoring chase, and is likely to keep his place in the side.

However, Shubman Gill, can be given a chance too, keeping his exploits in mind at the same venue during India’s successful campaign at the U-19 World Cup. Since Kedar Jadhav wasn’t able to bat in the first game, he is also likely to retain his spot in the team. His unorthodox bowling action helped India with the priced wicket of Henry Nicholls – a big plus if India decides to stick with four-pronged bowling attack. Virat Kohli Surpasses Brian Lara to Enter List of Top 10 Leading ODI Run-Scores, During India vs New Zealand, 1st ODI.

Since the interim ban on Hardik Pandya is lifted by the CoA, and he is said to be a part of the Indian squad soon, the news would be music to Kohli’s ears. It might prompt him to replace Vijay Shankar with Khaleel Ahmed, given how batting friendly the wicket at the Bay Oval – venue of India vs New Zealand 2nd ODI.

One out of Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep Yadav will have to make a place for Ravindra Jadeja – someone who is more suited to the conditions in Mount Maunganui. The fast bowling department would see the duo of Mohammed Shami and Bhuvneshwar Kumar steaming in from either end.

India’s Likely XI Against NZ, 2nd ODI 2019: Shikhar Dhawan, Rohit Sharma (vc), Virat Kohli (c), Ambati Rayudu, MS Dhoni (wk), Kedar Jadhav, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Mohammed Shami, and Khaleel Ahmed.

With a fantastic performance by the bowlers in the first ODI, and how the batting line-up was deprived of game-time due to a low total, the team selection would be a very tricky decision for Virat Kohli and the Indian think-tank. MS Dhoni Helps Kuldeep Yadav to Dismiss Trent Boult During Ind vs NZ 1st ODI 2019; Heard Saying, ‘Ankh Band Karke Rokega’ On Stump Mic (Watch Video).

India and New Zealand are scheduled to play the second ODI match at Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui on January 26. It will be exciting for the fans to see if the Men in Blue double their lead in the second match, or if the Blackcaps pull strings in their favour. Stay tuned with LatestLY for all the latest updates about India vs New Zealand ODI Series 2019!

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 25, 2019 11:55 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).