India began their year on a high, completely dominating Sri Lanka with a 3-0 whitewash in their ODI series. The 'Men in Blue' showcased a clinical level of play in every department to overcome the Asia Cup winners. As the team shifts focus to the New Zealand series starting January 18, they've hit a snag: Shreyas Iyer was officially ruled out of the series this past Tuesday.
Team India started the year on a strong note as they whitewashed Sri Lanka in the three-match ODI series. Men in blue produced clinical performance in all three departments to outplay the Asia Cup champions. Rohit Sharma-led men now gear up for the next assignment, a limited-over series against New Zealand which starts on January 18. India suffered a fresh injury blow as Shreyas Iyer was ruled out of the entire ODI series on Tuesday.
A back injury has forced the star middle-order player to miss all three ODIs. According to the BCCI, Iyer is heading to the NCA to focus on his recovery and undergo further tests. His absence will be felt deeply, especially since he led the team in ODI runs throughout the previous year.
To fill the gap, the All-India Senior Selection Committee has called up Rajat Patidar. However, Patidar might stay on the bench, as the opening for a middle-order spot will likely be taken by the in-form Suryakumar Yadav. Meanwhile, Rohit Sharma has confirmed that Ishan Kishan, who sat out the Sri Lanka series, will return to the lineup but will be tested in a different batting position.
In terms of the lineup, Washington Sundar might replace Axar Patel. The bowling attack is expected to consist of a trio of fast bowlers—Mohammed Siraj, Umran Malik, and Arshdeep Singh—supported by spinner Kuldeep Yadav. The first ODI against the Black Caps is set for Wednesday at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium.