India is set to embark on a historic multi-format tour of New Zealand later this year, featuring five T20Is, five ODIs, and two Test matches across five major venues. New Zealand Cricket (NZC) has confirmed that this 12-match series will be the largest inbound international tour in the board's history.
Tour Schedule and Venues
The tour is scheduled from October to December 2026. It will be India's first Test assignment in New Zealand since the 2019-20 season and their first white-ball tour of the country since 2022. The white-ball leg begins with a five-match T20I series starting on October 22 in Christchurch, followed by matches in Wellington, Auckland, and Hamilton. The action then shifts to the 50-over format, with five ODIs scheduled across Auckland, Wellington, Hamilton, and Tauranga.
Test Matches
The tour concludes with two Test matches: the opening Test at Wellington's Basin Reserve from November 19 to 23, and the second Test at Christchurch's Hagley Oval from November 27 to December 1.
Key Highlights
- The ODI series offers New Zealand fans a chance to see stalwarts like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, who continue to play in the 50-over format.
- With the 2027 ICC Cricket World Cup approaching, the five-match ODI series is expected to be crucial preparation for both teams.
- India and New Zealand last met in the final of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, where India successfully defended their title with a commanding victory.
This tour promises to add another exciting chapter to the growing rivalry between the two cricketing nations.
