India opt to bat first; no Gambhir in playing XI

TIL Desk Sports/ India won the toss and opted to bat first in the second Test of the three-match series against New Zealand here at the Eden Gardens on Friday. After winning the toss, Kohli said, “Pretty hard surface, good cover of grass, first overs will be challenging. Preparation has been smart, because it’s been hot in Kanpur and the same in Kolkata.

If we have the chance to dominate again, we will go for that extra bit. All about doing the basics right and executing the skills properly. Composition is same.”As far as Playing XI is concerned, India have not given a chance to senior opener Gautam Gambhir to make his comeback despite being included in a 15-man squad after a gap of two years. Opener Shikhar Dhawan has replaced injured KL Rahul in the Test team while Bhuvneshwar Kumar has come in place of Umesh Yadav.

For New Zealand, skipper Kane Williamson has been ruled out of the match due to an illness. Ross Taylor will lead the side in his absence. Henry Nichollas has been brought in place of Williamson while Matt Henry and Jeetan Patel have replaced Mark Craig and Ish Sodhi respectively. The Virat Kohli-led side, who have taken a 1-0 lead in the series following their comprehensive 197-run win in the opening Test, will aim to clinch the series.