India have recalled captain Shubman Gill and vice-captain Shreyas Iyer to their ODI squad for the upcoming three-match series against New Zealand, with the BCCI announcing the team on Friday. While Gill’s return strengthens the top order and leadership group, Iyer’s participation remains subject to fitness clearance from the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence (CoE).
Another notable comeback is that of Mohammed Siraj, who returns to the 50-over setup after missing India’s recent home series against South Africa. Siraj’s inclusion adds much-needed experience and bite to the pace attack as India look to reassert themselves in the ODI format.
The returns of Gill, Iyer, and Siraj have resulted in Tilak Varma, Ruturaj Gaikwad, and Dhruv Jurel making way from the squad. The selection signals the team management’s preference for experience and stability ahead of a challenging series against a strong New Zealand side.
The ODI series begins on January 11 in Vadodara, with the second and third matches scheduled to be played in Rajkot on January 14 and Indore on January 18, respectively. All three venues are known for producing high-scoring encounters, setting the stage for an entertaining contest.
Adding further star power to the series is the return of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to international cricket. The senior batters were last seen in action during the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy, where both struck impressive centuries, underlining their form and readiness for international duty. Their presence not only boosts India’s batting depth but also brings invaluable experience to a squad blending youth and senior leadership.
India’s bowling attack looks well-rounded, with Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna, Harshit Rana, and Kuldeep Yadav offering a mix of pace, variation, and spin. The all-round department is bolstered by Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, and Nitish Kumar Reddy, while KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant provide wicketkeeping options and flexibility in the middle order. Yashasvi Jaiswal also earns a place, continuing his rise across formats.
With key players returning and leadership roles clearly defined, India will aim to start the year strongly and build momentum in ODIs against a familiar and competitive New Zealand outfit.
India’s ODI squad vs New Zealand:
Shubman Gill (C), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul (WK), Shreyas Iyer (VC)*, Washington Sundar, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Siraj, Harshit Rana, Prasidh Krishna, Kuldeep Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Arshdeep Singh, Yashasvi Jaiswal.
