The Indian cricket team is set to lock horns with New Zealand in a three-match ODI series, with the first encounter scheduled for Sunday, January 11, at 1:30 PM IST. The series opener will be a historic occasion as it marks the first men's international match to be played at the new BCA Stadium in Vadodara. Despite the looming T20 World Cup, the focus remains firmly on the 50-over format and the seasoned campaigners in the Indian lineup.
Kohli and Rohit Lead India's Charge
Once again, the spotlight will be on the experienced duo of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. The senior batters are expected to play pivotal roles as India fields a near full-strength side on home soil. Their recent performances in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, where they scored heavily, confirm they are in prime form. Their consistency and experience continue to be the cornerstone of India's ODI strategy for the series against the Black Caps.
A significant subplot revolves around Shubman Gill, who returns to lead the ODI side after his omission from the T20 World Cup squad. His form will be under intense scrutiny. His comeback likely means that despite scoring a maiden ODI hundred against South Africa recently, Yashasvi Jaiswal might have to make way at the top of the order. The middle order receives a boost with the return of Shreyas Iyer, expected to bring stability back to the crucial No. 4 position.
Team Composition and Bowling Dynamics
In terms of team composition, KL Rahul is likely to continue donning the dual role of wicketkeeper and finisher, which keeps Rishabh Pant out of the playing eleven for now. The all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja has trained fully and appears fit for selection. However, key players Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya have been rested for workload management.
The pace attack will be spearheaded by Mohammed Siraj, supported by Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna, and Harshit Rana. The spin department will be handled by Kuldeep Yadav, Washington Sundar, and Ravindra Jadeja. With flat pitches and dew expected to play a factor in the evening, bowlers from both sides might prioritize control over aggressive wicket-taking pursuits.
New Zealand's Fresh-Faced Challenge
New Zealand arrives with a squad missing several senior players, presenting a fresh look. Michael Bracewell will captain the side. Despite the new faces, the Kiwis remain a confident unit, shifting from their previous tour mantra of "firing the first shot" to a more present-focused approach encapsulated by "you are where your feet are." They still possess experienced and threatening batters like Devon Conway and Daryl Mitchell, who will be key to their chances.
IND vs NZ 1st ODI Live Streaming: The match will be televised live on the Star Sports Network. Fans can also stream the action live via the JioHotstar app and website.
India Squad: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill(c), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul(w), Washington Sundar, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Harshit Rana, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Rishabh Pant, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ravindra Jadeja.
New Zealand Squad: Devon Conway(w), Will Young, Henry Nicholls, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell(c), Zakary Foulkes, Nick Kelly, Josh Clarkson, Michael Rae, Kyle Jamieson, Mitchell Hay, Adithya Ashok, Kristian Clarke, Jayden Lennox.
