Why is KL Rahul not playing in NZ vs IND 5th ODI?
(Courtesy : Getty Images)
KL Rahul scored crucial runs to help India win the 2nd NZ vs IND ODI in Wellington.
New Zealand humiliated India in the fourth ODI, recording a 244-run win. It was India’s second-biggest ODI defeat ever. The hosts have earned the momentum and will look to carry it on going into the final game.
The match will be played on Sunday at Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui. Matt Henry demolished the Indian batting unit with a six-wicket haul in last game. Luckily, he won’t feature in the final game, which will give a shy of relief for the Indian top order.
New Zealand are yet to taste a defeat in a bilateral ODI series at home since 2019. India have a golden opportunity to beat the Kiwis in their own backyard in an ODI series.
India have gone with a top-heavy batting lineup, and New Zealand have made a few changes to their playing XI. For India, KL Rahul is not playing, and Ishan Kishan will keep the wickets.
Why did KL Rahul miss NZ vs IND 5th ODI?
Catch Every Update, Anytime, Anywhere
KL Rahul is a big miss for India in the fifth game. The 34-year-old has been an important link in the Indian middle order and has bailed India out many times. Just like he did in the second ODI in Wellington.
In a tricky chase, he scored an unbeaten 26 off 38 balls before the game was called off. India were ahead by four runs and were awarded a win by the DLS method. Rahul has been released from the squad to join the Indian test team.
India and New Zealand will be facing each other in the two-match test series, starting on November 19. Hence, key players from both sides are not part of the last two ODIs, including Rahul and Indian captain Shubman Gill.
That is why Ishan is playing as the keeper on the side and Shreyas Iyer is leading the team. Rahul is a key player for the Indian test side, and he will join the test camp ahead of the series start.
When and where will the final NZ vs IND ODI take place?
The final ODI will be played on Sunday, November 15, at Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui.
How to watch the final NZ vs IND ODI in India?
Fans can watch the live action on the Sony Sports Networks and watch the live stream on the Sony LIV app or website.
For more updates, follow Khel Now Cricket on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Whatsapp & Telegram.