Mohammed Siraj is set to replace Auqib Nabi in the New Zealand vs India 2nd ODI.

India's bowling unit played a decisive role in the five-match series opener at Eden Park, restricting New Zealand to 185.

India will look to build on their winning start when they face New Zealand in the second ODI at Hnry Stadium in Wellington on Saturday, November 7. After securing a five-wicket victory in the series opener in Auckland, Shubman Gill’s side will aim to extend their lead and move closer to winning the five-match series.

One of the biggest selection questions ahead of the contest concerns Mohammed Siraj. The experienced fast bowler has joined the ODI squad in Wellington after representing India A in the unofficial Test series against New Zealand A. His arrival would open the door for a change in India’s bowling attack, with Auqib Nabi warming the bench.

Mohammed Siraj set to replace Auqib Nabi in Wellington ODI

Siraj’s availability is a major boost for India, particularly after the team relied on a relatively inexperienced pace attack in the opening ODI. The Hyderabad pacer was involved in India A’s second unofficial Test, which concluded on November 3, and was therefore expected to join the senior squad in Wellington.

The 32-year-old brings considerable international experience and the ability to extract movement with the new ball. His inclusion could strengthen India’s attack as they prepare for another challenging encounter against the Black Caps.

Nabi, meanwhile, conceded 33 runs without taking a wicket in six overs during the first ODI. Although those figures were expensive, he was also unlucky because a catch was dropped off his bowling.

Indian pacers shined in Auckland ODI

India’s bowling unit played a decisive role in the opening match, restricting New Zealand to 185 in 40.2 overs at Eden Park.

Arshdeep Singh led the attack with four wickets, while Gurnoor Brar claimed three. Anshul Kamboj also made an important contribution, taking two wickets and maintaining excellent control throughout his spell.

The performance demonstrated that India’s young pace options could handle pressure at the international level. Nevertheless, bringing Siraj into the XI will give Gill an experienced bowler who has operated successfully across different conditions and against quality opposition.

Wellington could offer another opportunity for India’s seamers to exploit movement in the air and off the surface. If the conditions favour fast bowling, the visitors may again prefer a pace-heavy combination rather than bringing in specialist spinner Kuldeep Yadav.

Will India make changes in their batting order?

India’s batting line-up is unlikely to undergo major changes after the victory in Auckland. Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill are expected to continue at the top, followed by Virat Kohli at No. 3.

Kohli was the standout batter in the first ODI, scoring 74 off 51 balls and guiding India through a difficult phase of the chase. His ability to deal with New Zealand’s bounce and pace will once again be crucial.

Shreyas Iyer is also expected to retain his place at No. 4, while KL Rahul will provide stability in the middle order and handle wicketkeeping duties. Naman Dhir and Axar Patel would strengthen the batting depth, allowing India to maintain flexibility if early wickets fall.

The team management will want the middle order to convert starts into substantial contributions, particularly if New Zealand’s bowlers produce another disciplined performance.

India’s predicted playing XI for the 2nd ODI

1. Rohit Sharma
2. Shubman Gill (captain)
3. Virat Kohli
4. Shreyas Iyer
5. KL Rahul (wicketkeeper)
6. Naman Dhir
7. Axar Patel
8. Anshul Kamboj
9. Gurnoor Brar
10. Arshdeep Singh
11. Mohammed Siraj