India captain Shubman Gill explained the decision to drop bowler Arshdeep Singh for the first ODI against New Zealand as 'rotation' to provide opportunities ahead of the World Cup. Gill stated the team wanted to give Mohammed Siraj a chance, similar to how Arshdeep was given opportunities previously. Despite fan and former player criticism regarding continuity, the bowling attack performed well, with three pacers taking two wickets each. India successfully chased New Zealand's score of 300/8.