ICC T20 World Cup 2021: Virat Kohli and Co need to make these BIG changes in playing 11 against New Zealand

The game against New Zealand is surely a crucial one as the Indian side lost their opening game against Pakistan in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2021 in the Middle East.

This clash against the Kiwis will test Virat Kohli's captaincy as a win here would help the side solidify their chase to the semi-finals.

India will have to win the match against New Zealand at any cost to stay in the tournament. A win against the BlackCaps will make India's job easier as they will later play matches against Afghanistan, Scotland and Namibia. India will be able to reach the semi-finals if they win their next three matches with a good Net Run Rate (NRR). 

However, to win the clash, the side will surely have to make changes to their squad and these three big changes could be beneficial.

1. Bhuvneshwar Kumar

Talking about India's premier bowler Bhuvi's form, the pacer, in nine T20I games this year, only bagged as many wickets at an average of 21.33. Moreover, in the recently-concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 season, the bowler grabbed 6 wickets in 11 games for Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH).

His poor form continued as against Pakistan, Bhuvneshwar Kumar conceded 25 runs in 3 overs and did not pick a single wicket. In place of Bhuvi, Shardul Thakur could be given a chance against New Zealand. The all-rounder is currently in form and has even been called the man with a golden arm during the IPL.

In the 16 matches he played for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL 2021, he took 21 wickets at an average of 25.09 and an economy rate of 8.80. Shardul in the last 2 years, has also been the highest wicket-taker fast bowler as he has 23 wickets in 14 innings to his name.

2. Suryakumar Yadav

Considered to be a game-changer, SKY has not been able to do much as his poor form from the IPL continued into the World Cup. Suryakumar was given a chance in this match to bat at No. 4, however, he got out after scoring just 11 runs. In place of Suryakumar Yadav, his Mumbai Indians (MI) teammate Ishan Kishan could grab the spot. The explosive batsman can even be sent to open with Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul can be shifted to the number four spot.

3. Varun Chakravarthy

The 'mystery bowler' of India, Varun Chakravarthy was included in the playing XI in place of experienced R Ashwin. However, the plan backfired as the spinner conceded 33 runs in the bowling of 4 overs and did not get a single wicket.  

Former Pakistan opening batsman Salman Butt had even made fun of Varun Chakravarthy and on his YouTube channel said, "Varun Chakravarthy may be a mystery bowler, but he is no surprise to us. Every kid bowls like this in the streets of Pakistan, where bowlers try finger tricks and different variations with the ball".  

Many believe R Ashwin should be brought in for this crucial match.