Tue Oct 15 18:04:52 UTC 2024: ## India’s Probable Playing XI for 1st Test Against New Zealand: Gill Out, Siraj & Bumrah In?

**Bengaluru:** With the first test match of the three-match series between India and New Zealand set to begin on Wednesday, October 16th at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, speculation is rife about India’s playing eleven. Reports suggest that opener Shubman Gill might miss the first Test due to illness, raising questions about who will replace him and where in the batting order.

**Rohit & Jaiswal to Open, Kohli at 3?**

Indian skipper Rohit Sharma and young batsman Yashasvi Jaiswal are expected to open the innings. If Gill is unavailable, Virat Kohli could move to number three, leaving KL Rahul to bat at number four.

**Sarfaraz Khan Returns, But Where?**

Sarfaraz Khan is likely to return to the team, but his exact batting position remains unclear. He has been a prolific performer at number five in domestic cricket, but he has also batted at number four.

**Pant the Keeper, Jadeja & Ashwin the Spin Duo**

Rishabh Pant is a certainty as wicket-keeper. The spin department will be led by the experienced duo of Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin.

**Pace Trio Leads Bowling Attack**

Considering the weather conditions, skipper Rohit Sharma may opt for three pacers. Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Akash Deep are likely to lead the bowling attack.

**India’s Probable Playing XI:**

* Rohit Sharma (c)
* Yashasvi Jaiswal
* Virat Kohli
* KL Rahul
* Sarfaraz Khan/Shubman Gill
* Rishabh Pant (wk)
* Ravindra Jadeja
* Ravichandran Ashwin
* Jasprit Bumrah
* Mohammed Siraj
* Akash Deep

With the team announcement expected soon, fans will be closely watching to see if India opts for a full-strength attack or makes any surprise changes.

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