The Indian men’s cricket team will begin 2026 by hosting New Zealand for a three-match ODI series starting January 11. The series has generated intense interest as it marks the return of senior batters Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to international cricket. With major ICC events in mind, the upcoming ODIs are being seen as an essential checkpoint for India’s 50-over plans.
Both Rohit and Kohli come into the series in strong form. The duo recently played in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy, where they scored impressive centuries for their respective domestic teams. Before that, they were last seen in India colours during the ODI series against South Africa. Their return adds experience and calm to a squad that is also undergoing a leadership transition.
The selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, is expected to meet in Mumbai soon to finalise the squad. With Shubman Gill continuing as India’s ODI captain, the focus is on balance, clarity of roles, and long-term planning.
Why Shubman Gill’s Captaincy and Senior Returns Matter
The Australia tour in October last year marked the beginning of Shubman Gill’s tenure as India’s ODI captain, replacing Rohit Sharma. Since then, the team management has backed Gill as a long-term leader in the format. The New Zealand series will be another test of his leadership, especially with senior players returning to the side.
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s presence gives Gill strong support at the top. Rohit’s form has been steady since the Australia ODIs, while Kohli has looked sharp after bouncing back from a lean patch. Their experience will be vital against a disciplined New Zealand bowling attack.
India’s top order is expected to feature Rohit, Gill, and Kohli, with Yashasvi Jaiswal and Ruturaj Gaikwad providing depth. This mix allows India to manage workloads while maintaining high competition. For more context, read our related article on India’s ODI leadership transition and India’s squad planning for ICC events.
The series also helps India fine-tune combinations before bigger tournaments, making every selection call necessary.
Wicketkeeper Debate and Bowling Balance Explained
One of the most significant talking points around India’s ODI squad is the wicketkeeper slot. KL Rahul has been India’s first-choice wicketkeeper-batter in ODIs for some time now. Rishabh Pant, despite being part of the South Africa series, did not get a game and may miss out again.
Ishan Kishan has strengthened his case with strong domestic performances. After captaining Jharkhand to a historic Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy title, he scored a century in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, showing good form in one-day cricket. Sanju Samson is also in discussion, but his lack of recent List A games works against him despite his last ODI century against South Africa in 2023.
In bowling, India are likely to rely on a mix of pace and spin. Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna, and Harshit Rana offer variety in pace, while Kuldeep Yadav leads the spin attack. Mohammed Shami’s expected return adds experience and control, which will be crucial at home.
All-rounders Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, and Nitish Kumar Reddy provide balance to the XI, covering both batting depth and bowling options. This predicted squad reflects India’s clear ODI roadmap as they prepare to face India’s long-standing rivals and strong white-ball teams like Australia in the future.
