India’s stand-in ODI skipper made two major changes in the playing XI for the second ODI against New Zealand at Seddon Park, Hamilton. Sanju Samson who has been in the news for a while now was replaced by Deepak Hooda despite the former’s decent outing in the first ODI with a 38-ball 36. After the incessant rain robbed fans of a result in the second ODI, Dhawan explained why Samson warmed the benches.
“We wanted the sixth bowler to come in, so Sanju Samson missed out and Hooda came in,” Dhawan told the broadcasters.
India were lacking the sixth bowling option in the first ODI where the record-breaking partnership between skipper Kane Williamson and Tom Latham helped hosts chase down 307.
While Shreyas Iyer was not given the ball in the first ODI, Hooda was included for his right-arm off-spin. Last Sunday (November 20), Hooda had registered the record-breaking bowling figures of 4/10 in the second T20I.
Dhawan made another change by replacing Shardul Thakur with Deepak Chahar. Thakur had leaked 63 runs from nine overs he bowled and took the wicket of Finn Allen.
“And Chahar was picked because he can swing the ball really well. A few of our guys are resting but this side is still strong, shows the depth of our squad,” Dhawan said.
Both Hooda and Chahar did not get a chance to showcase their talent as rain gods played spoilsport. Only 12.5 overs were bowled as India scored 89/1 which was reduced to 29-overs per side game.
Dhawan lauded Gill and speedster Umran Malik for their performances in the ODI so far when he was asked about leading a young team.
“Damn exciting, makes me feel so young (laughs). No but seriously this is a good opportunity for the guys travelling so far, to see the way Shubman has batted and Umran’s bowling, glad to see that transition. As a team we want to get our processes right, and put on a good performance in Christchurch. Hopefully we can win and enjoy ourselves,” Dhawan concluded.
