India Face Selection Shake-Up as Prasidh Krishna Misses New Zealand ODIs; Rising Pacer in Line for Call-Up
India have suffered a setback ahead of their upcoming five-match ODI series against New Zealand, with fast bowler Prasidh Krishna ruled out of the entire 50-over assignment due to a hamstring injury. Jammu and Kashmir pacer Auqib Nabi has emerged as a potential replacement after impressing during India A's ongoing tour of New Zealand.
The development comes as India prepare for a challenging overseas assignment beginning November 4, with the selectors now having to reassess their fast-bowling combinations in Krishna's absence.
Prasidh Krishna's Injury Forces India's Hand
Krishna's absence is a blow to India's pace-bowling plans. The 30-year-old sustained a hamstring injury during the second ODI against the West Indies in Guwahati on September 30.
The Karnataka fast bowler was unable to complete his spell after experiencing discomfort. He subsequently began his rehabilitation programme at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru.
Although Krishna was initially included in India's ODI squad subject to fitness clearance, the BCCI confirmed on October 29 that he would miss the entire New Zealand ODI series.
According to the board's official statement, the pacer needs additional time to build the workload required to return to competitive cricket.
India are also keen to ensure that Krishna is fully fit for the two-match Test series against New Zealand, scheduled to begin on November 19.
Auqib Nabi Emerges as a Replacement Option
With Krishna unavailable, Jammu and Kashmir's rising fast-bowling talent Auqib Nabi is attracting attention.
Nabi has impressed during India A's first four-day match against New Zealand A in Lincoln, showcasing his ability to exploit seam-friendly conditions.
The right-arm pacer picked up six wickets across the two innings, including an impressive second-innings spell of three wickets for 28 runs.
His performances have reportedly strengthened his chances of receiving an opportunity in the senior ODI setup.
Nabi is already in New Zealand as part of the India A contingent. He was originally named in India's squad for the fourth and fifth ODIs, making him a convenient option if the selectors decide to adjust the squad for the opening matches.
However, an official announcement confirming his promotion or replacement for Krishna in the first three ODIs is still awaited.
India's Pace Attack Faces a Test
Krishna's absence leaves India with an important decision regarding their fast-bowling combination.
Mohammed Siraj and Arshdeep Singh are expected to shoulder significant responsibility, while Anshul Kamboj and Gurnoor Brar provide additional options.
Jasprit Bumrah has been rested from the ODI series as the team management looks to keep him fresh for the upcoming Test assignment.
The conditions in New Zealand could make seam bowling particularly important. The ability to generate movement with the new ball and maintain accuracy throughout the innings will be crucial.
Nabi's recent performances in New Zealand could therefore work in his favour.
A Big Opportunity for Auqib Nabi
For Nabi, the potential call-up represents another opportunity to establish himself at the international level.
The Jammu and Kashmir pacer has built a reputation through his domestic performances and has continued to attract attention with his displays for India A.
His impressive showing in the 2025-26 Ranji Trophy season further strengthened his credentials as a promising fast-bowling prospect.
An opportunity against New Zealand would allow him to demonstrate his skills in challenging overseas conditions and potentially strengthen his position in India's wider ODI plans.
India vs New Zealand ODI Series: What's Next?
The five-match ODI series begins on November 4, 2026. India's selection decisions will be closely watched as the team prepares for the challenges ahead.
While Krishna's immediate absence is disappointing, the situation could open the door for another promising fast bowler to make an impression.
All eyes will now be on Auqib Nabi and whether the selectors decide to bring him into the opening leg of the series.
For India, the priority remains clear: manage Krishna's recovery carefully while ensuring that the pace attack remains competitive throughout the New Zealand tour.
