New Zealand vs India 2020, 1st ODI: New Zealand's predicted playing XI and key players

After being whitewashed by India in the 5-match T20I series, New Zealand will look to give the visitors a run for their money in the 3-match ODI series. But unfortunately for the hosts, their regular captain Kane Williamson will miss the first two games because of an injury. Wicket-keeper batsman Tom Latham will lead the side in his absence.

The team's experienced stars Ross Taylor and Martin Guptill will have to bring their 'A' game to the table in the batting department as the team's premier fast bowlers are out with injury. Interestingly, this is the first time that the Blackcaps will take part in an ODI game since their heartbreaking defeat to England in the 2019 World Cup final.

Given that New Zealand will play at home, they will still have the upper hand heading into this match. Here's a look at how they might line up for the contest.

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Mark Chapman performed well against India A

Martin Guptill will open the innings for the home side along with Henry Nicholls. Captain Tom Latham will back them up at number 3 while the team's most experienced batsman, Ross Taylor will hold the number 4 position.

Mark Chapman impressed a lot against India A and hence the team management would likely send him in at number 5. James Neesham will be the team's premier all-rounder at number 6 while Colin de Grandhomme will try to support Neesham in the all-rounders' department.

The trio of Hamish Bennett, Tim Southee and Scott Kuggeleijn should form the team's fast bowling attack whereas Ish Sodhi will be the team's sole spinner.

Predicted playing XI of New Zealand for first ODI vs India: Martin Guptill, Henry Nicholls, Tom Latham (c & wk), Ross Taylor, Mark Chapman, James Neesham, Colin de Grandhomme, Scott Kuggeleijn, Tim Southee, Ish Sodhi, Hamish Bennett

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Key players

James Neesham can prove to be a differential

James Neesham: The all-rounder James Neesham did not feature in the T20I series but he will look to make an impact with his performances in the 50-over format. He was in phenomenal touch last year and will hope to begin the new decade with a match-winning performance.

Ross Taylor: In Kane Williamson's absence, Ross Taylor will have the onus of building the innings. Taylor could not finish off the games in the T20I series and hence the right-handed batsman will try to improve his game and turn the momentum in the Kiwis' favor.