The Indian team could face further challenges ahead of the five-match ODI series against New Zealand, which begins on November 4. Questions remain regarding the fitness of fast bowler Prasidh Krishna.
The 30-year-old bowler has been included in the squad for the first three ODIs, but he has yet to receive fitness clearance from the Centre of Excellence (CoE).
Prasidh Krishna to undergo a fitness test
Prasidh Krishna will need to prove his fitness by participating in match-simulation training sessions on November 1 and 2. Only then will it be determined whether he can take part in the ODI series.
The first ODI is scheduled for November 4 in Auckland, making his participation in the opening match appear unlikely. When the squad was announced on October 16, the BCCI clarified that Prasidh’s selection was contingent upon him receiving fitness clearance.
Prasidh Krishna sustained a hamstring injury during the second ODI against the West Indies on September 30. Since then, he has been working on his fitness at the Centre of Excellence.
He also participated in a training session on October 22 as part of a fitness assessment, but he has not yet been declared fully fit. According to reports, his recovery is progressing; however, the medical team is closely monitoring his bowling sessions and the physical strain on his body.
Also Read: Andrew McDonald Set for Contract Talks Beyond 2027
Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Shubman Gill are keen for Prasidh Krishna to be fully fit for the upcoming Test series against New Zealand. The first match of the two-Test series will be held in Wellington on November 19, followed by the second in Christchurch on November 27.
Given the context of the World Test Championship, this series is highly significant for India. Consequently, the team management is unlikely to take the risk of fielding Prasidh during the ODI series. His potential return will only become clear following the fitness assessments scheduled for November 1 and 2.
