Follow Us 
Published: January 3, 2026 4:48 PM IST 
By 
Shubman Gill to lead the team
Shubman Gill has been appointed captain of the Indian team for the ODI series against New Zealand. Experienced batsmen like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are also part of the squad, strengthening the batting lineup. This will be a crucial opportunity for Gill to prove himself as a captain.
Balanced batting and wicketkeeping options
KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant have been included as wicketkeepers. Shreyas Iyer has been named vice-captain, although his participation will depend on receiving fitness clearance from the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence. Young batsmen like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Nitish Kumar Reddy have also been given a chance.
Strong all-rounders and spin department
All-rounders Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar will provide balance to the team. The spin attack will be led by Kuldeep Yadav, who has been consistently effective in ODI cricket. This combination could play a crucial role against the New Zealand batsmen.
Reliance on young fast bowlers
The fast bowling attack includes Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna, and Harshit Rana. The selectors have given opportunities to young fast bowlers, indicating a focus on future preparations. Hardik Pandya has been rested from the ODI team due to workload management.
India’s ODI squad
Shubman Gill (C), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul (WK), Shreyas Iyer (VC), Washington Sundar, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohd Siraj, Harshit Rana, Prasidh Krishna, Kuldeep Yadav, Rishabh Pant (WK), Nitish Kumar Reddy, Arshdeep Singh, Yashasvi Jaiswal
Story Highlights
- Indian squad announced for the three-match ODI series against New Zealand
- Shubman Gill appointed captain, Shreyas Iyer named vice-captain
- Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli return to the ODI team
- Hardik Pandya rested from the ODI team due to bowling workload
