India Returns to Action Against New Zealand’s Inexperienced Squad

India’s cricket stars, led by Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, are set to return to the field as they face a largely inexperienced New Zealand side in a three-match ODI series starting on January 10, 2026. This series marks a significant return for the Indian team after a lengthy 22-day break from international competition, coinciding with the festive holiday season.

New Zealand arrives with a squad that features several players who lack experience in Indian conditions. Eight of the fifteen players have never competed in India, and two have yet to play any form of international cricket. Injuries have also taken a toll on their lineup, with key players such as Mitchell Santner, Matt Henry, and Mark Chapman unavailable. Additionally, Kane Williamson opted to miss the series due to a scheduling conflict with the SA20 tournament, highlighting a growing trend where prominent players are prioritizing franchise commitments over national duty.

Despite the absence of high-profile names, New Zealand enters the series riding a remarkable nine-match winning streak, just one victory shy of their record. In comparison, India’s recent form has been less impressive, with a record of two wins and three losses in their last five completed ODIs.

Key Players to Watch

In the spotlight will be Shubman Gill, who is seeking to bounce back after a challenging period in 2025. Following a neck injury that contributed to India’s Test series defeat against South Africa, Gill missed the ODIs and lost his T20I position for the upcoming World Cup. A successful performance in this series will be crucial for his comeback.

On the New Zealand side, Michael Bracewell, who captains the team, represents a different journey. Not a prodigy, but a seasoned player nearing 35, he is known for his remarkable 140-run performance in an ODI against India almost two years ago. His role as a finger-spinner will be vital against a formidable Indian batting lineup.

Team News and Conditions

India welcomes back Shreyas Iyer, who has endured a challenging recovery from injury. After suffering a severe injury while fielding in Australia, Iyer’s return is a boost for the team as he resumes his role as vice-captain. However, Jasprit Bumrah will miss the ODIs, allowing Mohammed Siraj to rejoin the squad, likely pushing Prasidh Krishna out of the starting eleven.

The probable Indian lineup includes Gill, Sharma, Kohli, Iyer, KL Rahul as wicketkeeper, and all-rounders Washington Sundar and Ravindra Jadeja. On the New Zealand side, Devon Conway may take on wicketkeeping duties for the first time in ODIs, while Nick Kelly and Will Young round out a batting lineup that will need to adapt quickly to Indian conditions.

The matches will take place at the newly inaugurated Kotambi Stadium in Vadodara, where the weather promises pleasant conditions for cricket, with temperatures in the mid-20s Celsius. Teams may opt to chase, taking into account the dew factor and the success of fast bowlers in previous matches held under similar conditions.

This ODI series provides an exciting opportunity for both teams, with India looking to regain momentum and New Zealand aiming to prove their resilience despite a daunting challenge. As they prepare to clash, cricket fans eagerly await the action that unfolds on the field.