India vs New Zealand: Will R Ashwin open bowling for India in 1st Test? Spinner drops a hint

India take on New Zealand in the first Test of the two-match series from 25 November at Kanpur.

India take on New Zealand in the first Test of the two-match series from 25 November at Kanpur.

Two days before the Test, India suffered a huge blow ahead of the two Tests as opening batter KL Rahul was ruled out of the series due to muscle strain in his left thigh.

With Rahul out, BCCI announced that Suryakumar Yadav has been added to India's squad and it will be interesting to see who plays in the first Test. It will be a toss up between two Mumbai players - Surya and Shreyas Iyer - for the slot in the middle order, as with Rahul gone expect Shubman Gill to open innings with Mayank Agarwal.