The Indian cricket team is set for a significant transition as they gear up for a three-match ODI series against New Zealand, commencing on 11 January. This series, serving as a crucial preparatory phase ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup, will witness major strategic changes in team composition and leadership.
Strategic Rest for Key Players
In a move aimed at long-term planning, the national selectors, led by Ajit Agarkar, have decided to rest premier all-rounder Hardik Pandya and pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah for the ODI leg. According to reports, the think tank wants these vital white-ball assets fully recovered and fresh for the subsequent five-match T20I series, which begins on 21 January, and ultimately for the global T20 event.
This decision paves the way for Shubman Gill to resume captaincy duties after missing the South Africa ODIs. Gill returns fully fit and will lead a side that is expected to welcome back senior stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, both of whom have shown scintillating form in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy.
Probable Squad Dynamics and Selection Conundrums
The squad selection presents several interesting puzzles for the committee. While young batsmen Ruturaj Gaikwad and Yashasvi Jaiswal are likely to retain their places after impressive centuries against South Africa, they might face stiff competition for a spot in the final playing eleven.
The wicket-keeping position behind first-choice KL Rahul remains wide open. With Rishabh Pant's recent limited ODI exposure, the second keeper's slot is a direct contest between Ishan Kishan and Sanju Samson. Furthermore, Dhruv Jurel, who was part of the South Africa series, is likely to make way with Gill's return.
In the bowling department, Mohammed Siraj is anticipated to make a comeback to the ODI setup. The choice between spin all-rounders Axar Patel and Ravindra Jadeja will be critical, with Axar potentially being managed due to his T20 leadership role. The availability of vice-captain Shreyas Iyer, who is recovering well from a spleen injury, adds another layer of intrigue.
Series Schedule and How to Watch
The action begins with the first ODI in Vadodara on 11 January. The teams then move to Rajkot for the second match on 14 January, before concluding the series in Indore on 18 January. All matches are scheduled for a 1:30 PM IST start.
Fans in India can catch the live broadcast on the Star Sports Network. Live streaming will be available on the JioCinema app and website.
Probable India Squad for NZ ODIs: Rohit Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill (Captain), Tilak Varma, Ruturaj Gaikwad, KL Rahul (WK), Ishan Kishan (WK), Sanju Samson (WK), Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Siraj, Harshit Rana, Kuldeep Yadav.
