The much-anticipated return of senior stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to the One Day International fold is set to electrify the upcoming series against New Zealand. The first ODI, a crucial encounter for both teams, also marks a significant leadership moment for young opener Shubman Gill, who will captain the side after his surprising omission from India's T20 World Cup squad.
Team India: Returns, Leadership, and Fitness Updates
All eyes will be on the experienced duo of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli as they step back into the 50-over format. Their presence is expected to solidify the Indian batting lineup. The series holds special importance for skipper Shubman Gill, who will be eager to prove a point following his exclusion from the upcoming T20 World Cup.
In positive news for the team, vice-captain Shreyas Iyer appears to be fully fit. His participation was initially subject to fitness clearance, but recent outings, including captaining Mumbai in the Vijay Hazare Trophy and batting in nets, indicate he is back to full strength.
There was a minor concern regarding wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant, who suffered an injury scare during net sessions in Vadodara. However, he later walked off the field, suggesting the issue may not be serious.
New Zealand's Challenge and Series Context
The visiting New Zealand side will be led by Michael Bracewell in the absence of their regular captain, Mitchell Santner, who is recovering from a groin injury. This series represents the final ODI engagement for both nations before the cricketing world shifts its focus entirely to the T20 World Cup next month, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.
Match Details: Venue, Timing, and How to Watch
The first ODI will be played at the Vadodara International Cricket Stadium. This match is historic as it marks the first international fixture ever to be held at this venue. The live action is scheduled to begin at 1:30 PM IST, with the toss taking place at 1:00 PM IST.
For fans in India, the live broadcast will be available on the Star Sports network. The live-streaming option is through the JioCinema and Hotstar app, accessible via a valid subscription.
India 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.
New Zealand Squad: Michael Bracewell (c), Devon Conway (wk), Mitchell Hay (wk), Will Young, Henry Nicholls, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Nick Kelly, Josh Clarkson, Zak Foulkes, Kyle Jamieson, Adithya Ashok, Kristian Clarke, Jayden Lennox, Michael Rae.
