India Makes SHOCKING Decisions in 1st Test Against New Zealand - Here's What Happens Next

Bengaluru, Oct 17 (PTI) The Indian cricket team is set to face New Zealand in the rain-truncated opening Test at Bengaluru. With the rain casting a shadow over the match, the Indian team decided to make a couple of changes to their lineup, much to the surprise of fans and critics alike.

According to India captain Rohit Sharma, the team decided to bat first after winning the toss. However, it was not the decision to bat first that raised eyebrows, but the exclusions and inclusions to the team that had everyone talking.

One of the most notable exclusions from the team was Shubman Gill. While many would have thought that Gill was rested or given a break, the truth turned out to be different. According to Rohit Sharma, Gill was injured and not '100 per cent', as a result of which he had to be left out of the team.

Gill's exclusion came as a shock to many, especially considering his recent form and potential as an opening batsman for India. However, the team management seemed to have taken a cautious approach with his injury, and rightly so. With the risk of aggravating the injury high, it was probably best for Gill to sit this one out.

Gill's place in the team was taken by Sarfaraz Khan. While Sarfaraz is an experienced player with a good track record in first-class cricket, his inclusion came as a surprise to many. Nevertheless, it would be interesting to see how Sarfaraz performs in this Test match and whether he is able to capitalize on the opportunity given to him.

Another change to the team was the inclusion of Kuldeep Yadav. Unlike Sarfaraz, Kuldeep's inclusion did not come as a surprise to many, given his recent performances in the nets and his potential as a swing bowler. However, the exclusion of seamer Akash Deep did raise some eyebrows.

Akash Deep has been one of the promising young bowlers for India in recent times, and many would have expected him to retain his place in the team. However, it seems that the team management decided to go with experience in this case and opted for Kuldeep instead.

So, what does this mean for India in the long run? With Gill injured and Akash Deep excluded from the team, it remains to be seen whether the new inclusions will be able to deliver the goods. The fact that the team management has chosen experience over youth in this case speaks volumes about their priorities and thinking.

The focus will now be on Sarfaraz and Kuldeep to perform and repay the faith of the team management. Both players have the potential to make an impact and contribute to the team's success. However, only time will tell if this decision will pay off or not.