India fast bowler Prasidh Krishna will miss the upcoming five-match One Day International series against New Zealand as he continues his recovery from a hamstring injury. The 30-year-old pacer has not yet regained full match fitness, prompting the team management to avoid rushing him back into international cricket.
The series is scheduled to begin on November 4, 2026, with India preparing for an important period of international cricket ahead. No official replacement announcement had been made at the time of the latest reports, although Jammu and Kashmir fast bowler Auqib Nabi emerged as a possible option.
Hamstring Injury Delays Krishna’s Return
Krishna sustained the injury during India's home ODI series against the West Indies. The problem became evident during the second match in Guwahati, where he was able to bowl only five overs before leaving the field.
He returned figures of one wicket for 45 runs in that match but could not complete his bowling spell. Subsequent recovery work has helped him make progress, although he still requires additional time before returning to competitive action.
A Board of Control for Cricket in India source indicated that Krishna has match-simulation work and a fitness assessment scheduled at the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru on November 1 and 2. His participation in the New Zealand ODIs was therefore ruled out.
Team Management Prioritises Test Preparation
The decision to keep Krishna out of the ODI series is also linked to India's upcoming Test commitments. The team management and selectors reportedly believe that the fast bowler will be more important for the red-ball matches against New Zealand.
India's two-Test series is scheduled to begin on November 19 in Wellington, with the second match set to take place in Christchurch from November 27.
Krishna has developed an important role in India's Test bowling attack. He has taken 32 wickets in nine Test appearances, and his ability to generate bounce and movement makes him a useful option in overseas conditions.
The selectors are understood to be keen to have him fully fit rather than risk another setback by bringing him back too quickly.
Auqib Nabi Emerges as a Possible Replacement
Jammu and Kashmir pacer Auqib Nabi is among the players being considered for a place in the ODI squad. His performances for India A in New Zealand have reportedly strengthened his case.
Nabi impressed during the first unofficial red-ball match against New Zealand A in Lincoln, where his bowling generated movement and created difficulties for the opposition batters. His performance attracted the attention of members of the touring selection group.
The possibility of Nabi joining the senior squad remains subject to an official decision. Until the selectors announce a replacement, his inclusion should be treated as a potential development rather than a confirmed selection.
India’s Bowling Options Ahead of the Series
India will have to assess its fast-bowling combinations for the five-match contest. Mohammed Siraj remains an experienced option, while Arshdeep Singh, Anshul Kamboj and other emerging pacers provide additional choices.
Jasprit Bumrah has been rested from the ODI series as the team management focuses on managing his workload ahead of the Test matches. This makes the availability of other fast bowlers particularly important.
The New Zealand tour will also provide India with an opportunity to evaluate its bowling resources as preparations continue for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
For Krishna, the immediate priority remains completing rehabilitation and regaining full match fitness. His return to action will depend on medical clearance and the assessment of the team’s sports science staff.
