IND vs NZ: Ish Sodhi ruled out of Hyderabad ODI due to injury

Ish Sodhi [Source: AP]

In what could be a significant blow to New Zealand, experienced spinner Ish Sodhi has been ruled out of the first ODI against India due to an injury. 

The news was confirmed by none other than New Zealand's stand-in captain Tom Latham in the pre-match press conference. 

Latham, who will captain the side in this series, also explained how the absence of Tim Southee, Kane Williamson and Trent Boult offers a massive opportunity to the other players to step up and make their mark in international cricket. 

Here's what Latham stated

"Unfortunately a niggle for Ish. He won't be available tomorrow but fingers crossed he will be available for the next couple of games,

"They (Boult, Southee, Williamson) are not in the side and that leaves a massive hole for us. On the other hand, it presents an opportunity for other guys who have been around the squad. Everyone has played international cricket in the squad which is a bonus."

Sodhi's absence could adversely affect New Zealand in the game, as the surface in Hyderabad is expected to be conducive for the spinners. So, it will be interesting to see how the Kiwi pace trio fare against the rampant Indian batting order on the dry, flat Hyderabad surface. 

Also Read: West Indies Test Squad named for two-Test Series in Zimbabwe