IND vs NZ: Why did Arshdeep Singh replace Prasidh Krishna in 3rd ODI?

India picked their strike bowler in the ODI series decider.

India have made a tactical move by bringing Arshdeep Singh into the playing XI. The left-arm pacer replaced Prasidh Krishna for the series-deciding IND vs NZ 3rd ODI in Indore. With the three-match ODI series tied at 1-1, the decision underscores how seriously the Indian team management is taking this do-or-die encounter.

Prasidh Krishna featured in the first two ODIs and returned figures of 2/60 and 1/49. While those numbers are not alarming, they did not have the decisive impact India had wanted.

Team India’s move to bring in Arshdeep is a bold statement, especially after being comprehensively beaten by seven wickets in the second ODI. With the series on the line, India have opted for a bowler who offers greater wicket-taking threat, particularly in the powerplay.

Arshdeep Singh earns a call-up for the series-deciding ODI

Arshdeep Singh has been India’s leading wicket-taker in T20Is and is widely seen as a future spearhead across white-ball formats. His ability to swing the new ball, attack the stumps, and trouble batters with angles that are rare in Indian bowling attacks makes him a valuable asset.

Interestingly, the Indian team management had been carefully managing Arshdeep Singh’s workload. This is keeping in mind the upcoming T20I series against New Zealand and, more importantly, the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. The fact that Arshdeep warmed the bench in the first two ODIs was part of that larger plan to keep him fresh and injury-free.

However, with the series hanging in the balance, India have turned to Arshdeep for the crucial third ODI. This move clearly highlights the value he brings to the side. When the stakes are highest, the team management has shown trust in Arshdeep’s ability to deliver breakthroughs and set the tone early in the innings.

Arshdeep’s inclusion also signals India’s intent to be more aggressive with the new ball. On a surface like Indore, where early wickets can dictate the flow of the game, his left-arm angle could be key in unsettling the Kiwi batters.

Apart from this one change, the rest of the Indian lineup remains unchanged. The 3rd ODI also represents a crucial opportunity for players like Ravindra Jadeja to cement their place in the ODI setup.

In many ways, Arshdeep’s return for the IND vs NZ 3rd ODI is more than just a tactical switch. It is a clear statement of trust and an acknowledgment of his growing importance in India’s white-ball plans.

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