Predicted Playing XI of New Zealand in 5th ODI vs India

New Zealand will face India in the fifth and final ODI of the five-match series on November 15 at Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui. The hosts will enter the series decider with renewed confidence after registering a dominant 244-run victory in the fourth ODI. They will now aim to carry their winning momentum forward and level the series against the visitors.

India currently lead the series 2-1, with the third ODI ending without a result. However, New Zealand’s emphatic performance in the previous encounter has given them an opportunity to finish the series on a positive note. Will Young scored a brilliant 125, while Matt Henry produced a sensational spell of 6/27 to dismantle India’s batting lineup.

New Zealand could make a few changes to their combination for the final encounter, particularly because Matt Henry and Kyle Jamieson have departed to join the Test squad. Jacob Duffy is expected to lead the pace attack, while Blair Tickner and Kristian Clarke could play important roles with the ball.

Here is New Zealand’s predicted playing XI for 5th ODI:

1. Will Young

Will Young is expected to open the innings after his match-winning century in the fourth ODI. The right-handed batter looked comfortable against the Indian bowling attack and demonstrated excellent control throughout his innings. His ability to anchor the innings while maintaining a healthy scoring rate makes him an important player for New Zealand.

2. Nick Kelly

Nick Kelly could partner Young at the top of the order. The left-handed batter has shown promise in limited opportunities and can provide stability during the powerplay. He will be keen to make a valuable contribution and help New Zealand build a strong opening partnership.

3. Mark Chapman

Mark Chapman is likely to occupy the No. 3 position. The left-handed batter has experience in international cricket and can accelerate the scoring rate when required. His ability to play spin effectively will be particularly important during the middle overs.

4. Finn Allen

Finn Allen could feature at No. 4, providing New Zealand with another aggressive batting option. Although he is generally known for his explosive opening approach, his versatility could allow the team management to use him in the middle order. Allen’s ability to clear the boundaries makes him a dangerous batter.

5. Michael Bracewell

Michael Bracewell is expected to bat in the middle order and provide balance to the team. The left-handed all-rounder can play attacking strokes and contribute with his off-spin bowling. His experience could prove valuable in a pressure situation against India.

6. Mitchell Hay (WK)

Mitchell Hay is likely to retain the wicketkeeping responsibilities. The right-handed batter has shown the ability to contribute useful runs down the order. His presence will also provide New Zealand with flexibility in their batting combination.

7. Mitchell Santner (C)

Mitchell Santner will lead New Zealand in the series finale. The left-arm spinner is an important part of the team’s bowling attack and can contribute valuable runs in the lower middle order. His leadership and ability to control the middle overs will be crucial against India’s experienced batting lineup.

8. Kristian Clarke

Kristian Clarke could retain his place in the playing XI as a pace-bowling all-rounder. He offers New Zealand an additional seam-bowling option and can contribute with the bat when required. His ability to bowl disciplined lines will be important in the absence of Henry and Jamieson.

9. Blair Tickner

Blair Tickner is expected to feature as one of New Zealand’s frontline fast bowlers. He can generate bounce and trouble batters with his hard lengths. Tickner will have a significant responsibility in the powerplay and middle overs, particularly against India’s experienced top order.

10. Jacob Duffy

Jacob Duffy is likely to lead the pace attack in the absence of Matt Henry and Kyle Jamieson. He has been among New Zealand’s reliable fast-bowling options in recent ODIs and possesses the ability to swing the new ball. His experience will be important in providing early breakthroughs.

11. Matthew Fisher

Matthew Fisher could complete New Zealand’s bowling combination. The right-arm pacer offers another seam-bowling option and could benefit from the conditions at Bay Oval. He will look to make the most of the opportunity and support Duffy and Tickner in restricting India’s batting lineup.

New Zealand’s Predicted Playing XI for 5th ODI vs India

1. Will Young
2. Nick Kelly
3. Mark Chapman
4. Finn Allen
5. Michael Bracewell
6. Mitchell Hay (WK)
7. Mitchell Santner (C)
8. Kristian Clarke
9. Blair Tickner
10. Jacob Duffy
11. Matthew Fisher