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India announce ODI squad for New Zealand series
India have named a 15 member squad for the three match ODI series against New Zealand. The much-anticipated India vs New Zealand series begins on January 11 and will be played entirely in India.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Shubman Gill returns as ODI captain
Shubman Gill is back as India’s ODI captain. He missed the South Africa series due to a neck spasm suffered during the Kolkata Test. He has since returned to action in T20Is and is now ready to lead the ODI side as they take on New Zealand.
Shreyas Iyer named vice captain subject to fitness clearance
Shreyas Iyer has been appointed vice captain for the India vs New Zealand series. His selection depends on final fitness clearance. He is returning after a spleen injury suffered during the Australia tour and has not played competitive cricket since October 2025.
Mohammed Siraj makes comeback to ODI setup
Mohammed Siraj returns to the ODI team after last playing the format against New Zealand in Australia in October 2025. He remained active in domestic cricket with Hyderabad in the Vijay Hazare Trophy and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy.
Hardik Pandya rested ahead of T20 World Cup
Hardik Pandya has been rested as part of workload management. The BCCI has confirmed he is not yet cleared to bowl ten overs in a match. This strategic decision was made to ensure his preparation for the India vs New Zealand ODI series before the T20 World Cup starting February 7.
Injury updates on Gill and Iyer
Gill recovered from a neck spasm and resumed competitive cricket ahead of the India vs New Zealand matches. Iyer completed all fitness drills at the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru and batted without discomfort in a practice game on January 2.
Domestic cricket helps Siraj stay match ready
Siraj continued to build rhythm through domestic tournaments, ensuring he is prepared for India vs New Zealand clashes. His performances ensured match fitness ahead of his ODI return.
Changes from South Africa ODI series
Gill, Iyer, and Siraj replace Tilak Varma, Dhruv Jurel, and Ruturaj Gaikwad. India had won the South Africa ODI series 2 to 1 before preparing for the upcoming India vs New Zealand games.
Strong batting core with Rohit and Kohli
The batting unit features experienced players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, set to shine in the India vs New Zealand series. Yashasvi Jaiswal adds aggression at the top order.
Wicketkeeper options remain flexible
India have two wicketkeeper batters. KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant provide experience and depth for their ODIs against New Zealand.
Allrounders and spin attack overview
Washington Sundar, Ravindra Jadeja, and Nitish Kumar Reddy form the allround group. Kuldeep Yadav leads the spin attack in the India vs New Zealand fixtures.
India’s pace bowling combination
The fast bowling unit includes Siraj, Harshit Rana, Prasidh Krishna, and Arshdeep Singh. This group offers pace, swing, and death over options against New Zealand.
Vijay Hazare Trophy matches before ODI series
Gill and Iyer are expected to play one Vijay Hazare Trophy match each on January 6, which serves as preparatory session for their participation in the India vs New Zealand ODIs. Gill is likely to turn out for Punjab against Goa. Iyer is expected to represent Mumbai against Himachal Pradesh.
Iyer completes return to play protocol
As part of his comeback process, Iyer cleared all medical checks ahead of playing India vs New Zealand ODIs. He trained fully and showed no signs of discomfort during or after practice sessions.
Full schedule of India vs New Zealand ODIs
The first ODI will be played in Vadodara on January 11.
The second ODI will be held in Rajkot on January 14.
The third and final ODI will take place in Indore on January 18.
Complete India ODI squad list
Shubman Gill captain.
Rohit Sharma.
Virat Kohli.
KL Rahul wicketkeeper.
Shreyas Iyer vice captain subject to fitness clearance.
Washington Sundar.
Ravindra Jadeja.
Mohammed Siraj.
Harshit Rana.
Prasidh Krishna.
Kuldeep Yadav.
Rishabh Pant wicketkeeper.
Nitish Kumar Reddy.
Arshdeep Singh.
Yashasvi Jaiswal.
