The first game of India vs New Zealand, 5-match ODI series, will take place on January 23. And given how the Indian team is practising rigorously in the nets at the venue, McLean Park in Napier, of the series opener, it is evident that the side does not want to leave any stone unturned in the quest against the Blackcaps.

Mohammed Shami was seen honing his bowling skills in the practise session. Currently, the Indian team is pondering upon the third fast bowler in the ranks, after Jasprit Bumrah and Bhuvneshwar Kumar. India vs New Zealand 1st ODI 2019, Napier Weather Report: Know What Forecast Has in Store for IND vs NZ Series Opener.

Also, Khaleel Ahmed – who made his debut for India in 2018 – was seen sweating it out in the nets, too. He along with Shami is in involved in an intense juggle-up to find a space in the Indian team’s playing XI.

‘Man of the Series’ in India’s historic 2-1 triumph in the ODI series against Australia, MS Dhoni was seen playing his shots too. The former Indian captain scored three consecutive half-centuries in the series, and would be itching to carry the form into the series against the Kiwis. India vs New Zealand 1st ODI 2019 Preview: Virat Kohli & Co Start Favourites Against Kiwis.

Kedar Jadhav, who the Indian think-tank is banking on the finish the games, was seen focussing in the practice session too. Jadhav will be fighting for his place with Dinesh Karthik in the side, someone who is also seen as the finisher in the ODIs by the management.

See Pictures: Watch Mohammed Shami, MS Dhoni & Others at India’s Practice Session

 

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After their successful campaign against Australia Down Under, the Indian team under the leadership of Virat Kohli will now be touring New Zealand for the 5-match ODI, and 3-match T20I series. Shubman Gill to Make Debut? Young Batsman Gears Up in Nets Ahead of IND vs NZ 1st ODI 2019, Watch Video.

Watch IND vs NZ, 1st ODI 2019 Preview: India, New Zealand Eye Early Lead!

The Men in Blue might have emerged victorious playing in the conditions in Australia; however, New Zealand in their backyard pose a different challenge altogether. With ICC Cricket World Cup 2019 fast-approaching, it will be interesting to see how Virat Kohli shapes up the team! Stay tuned with us for all the latest updates about India vs New Zealand ODI Series 2019!

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 22, 2019 07:55 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).