In a crucial series decider against New Zealand at the Holkar Cricket Stadium in Indore, India has made a significant change to their playing XI, bringing in left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh in place of Prasidh Krishna. This decision comes after India's loss in the second ODI in Rajkot, where their bowling attack struggled to contain the New Zealand batsmen. India will be looking to protect their impressive home record in ODIs, having not lost a bilateral series since March 2019.

Shubman Gill, the Indian captain, won the toss and elected to bowl first, citing the potential for a high-scoring game at the Holkar Stadium. This decision suggests that India aims to utilize their strong batting lineup to chase down a target, banking on their familiarity with the conditions in Indore. The stadium has short boundaries, 62m on the right, 63m on the left and 71m down the ground, promising a high-scoring affair.

The inclusion of Arshdeep Singh is a strategic move to bolster the Indian bowling attack, which has been under pressure in the series. While the 1-1 scoreline suggests a balanced contest, New Zealand has arguably held an edge, particularly with their spin bowlers. Arshdeep's ability to provide early breakthroughs and vary his pace could prove crucial in containing the New Zealand batting lineup. He immediately justified his inclusion by taking the wicket of Henry Nicholls for a golden duck in the first over.

Prasidh Krishna, who has been dropped for this crucial encounter, had been a part of the playing XI in the previous matches but failed to make a significant impact. The team management likely felt the need for a change, opting for Arshdeep's experience and skill set to deliver under pressure.

India's strength lies in its batting depth, with key players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and KL Rahul in good form. Kohli, however, has a dismal record in Indore, and is yet to score a fifty at the venue. Rahul has been particularly impressive against New Zealand, scoring 469 runs in 10 innings at an average of 93.8. Rohit Sharma is also aiming to surpass Shahid Afridi for the most sixes in ODIs against New Zealand.

New Zealand, led by Michael Bracewell, will be determined to create history by winning their first-ever ODI series in India. They will rely on their strong batting lineup and effective spin bowling to challenge the Indian team. Daryl Mitchell has been a standout performer, scoring three centuries in his last four ODI innings against India in India.

As India looks to maintain their unbeaten record at the Holkar Stadium and win yet another home series, the inclusion of Arshdeep Singh adds a fresh dimension to their bowling attack. The series hangs in the balance, and the team that executes better under pressure will emerge victorious in this highly anticipated series decider.