The Indian cricket team's squad for the upcoming three-match One Day International series against New Zealand is set to be finalized on January 3. The selection committee, led by former pacer Ajit Agarkar, will convene in an online meeting to pick the players, according to sources within the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
Series Schedule and Player Assembly
The selected players will gather in Vadodara on January 7 to begin preparations. The series opener is scheduled for January 11 in Vadodara. The action will then shift to Rajkot for the second match on January 14, followed by the final ODI in Indore on January 18.
This ODI leg is generating considerable excitement as it marks the return of superstars Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to the 50-over format. They last played ODIs during the series against South Africa in December.
Captaincy and Key Player Updates
Shubman Gill, having recovered from a neck injury, is confirmed to lead the side. His appointment comes after he was not included in India's preliminary squad for the 2026 T20 World Cup. However, there is a setback for vice-captain Shreyas Iyer, whose return has been delayed. He will continue his rehabilitation at the BCCI's Centre of Excellence for another week.
In a significant development focused on workload management, star all-rounder Hardik Pandya and pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah are likely to be rested for this series. Both players have missed the last two ODI assignments, and with the T20 World Cup approaching, the team management is prioritizing their long-term fitness.
Selection Conundrums and In-Form Contenders
The selection meeting will address some key positions. One point of discussion will be the choice for the second wicketkeeper's role. The selectors could consider the red-hot form of Uttar Pradesh's Dhruv Jurel, who has amassed 307 runs in three matches at a staggering average of 153.5. His knock of 160 not out off 101 balls against Baroda in Rajkot on December 29 has put him firmly in contention. He will compete with the experienced Ishan Kishan for a spot in the squad.
It is noteworthy that squads for the subsequent five-match T20I series against New Zealand, starting January 21, have already been announced by both India and New Zealand.
