India Unveils ODI Squad for New Zealand Series: Mohammad Siraj and Shreyas Iyer Return, Ruturaj Gaikwad Omitted

The Indian cricket team is set to face its first challenge of the new year against New Zealand, with a series of three ODIs and five T20 matches commencing on January 11. The ODI squad has been officially announced on January 3, with Shubman Gill taking the captaincy after missing the previous series against South Africa due to injury. Notable inclusions are Mohammad Siraj and Shreyas Iyer, the latter set to play if cleared fit, following his injury during the tour of Australia. However, veteran fast bowler Mohammad Shami is absent from the squad, having last played during the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Surprising omissions include Ruturaj Gaikwad, who performed well against South Africa, along with Dhruv Jurel and Tikak Verma, all of whom were part of that series.

The ODI schedule for India vs. New Zealand is as follows: January 11 – First ODI in Vadodara, January 14 – Second ODI in Rajkot, January 18 – Third ODI in Indore.

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• India Unveils ODI Squad for New Zealand Series: A Fresh Look Ahead
• The Squad Announcement
• Changes in the Line-Up
• Controversial Omission of Ruturaj Gaikwad
• Indian Squad for the ODI Series
• Upcoming Matches Schedule
• Key Player Changes in India’s ODI Squad for New Zealand Series

India Unveils ODI Squad for New Zealand Series: A Fresh Look Ahead

As the new year kicks off, the Indian cricket team is set to face their first challenge against New Zealand. Commencing on January 11, the series will consist of three One Day Internationals (ODIs) followed by five T20 matches. The excitement escalates as Shubman Gill takes up the captaincy for the ODI series, leading a mix of returning and absent players. Notably, while Mohammad Siraj and Shreyas Iyer make their return, the exclusion of Ruturaj Gaikwad raises eyebrows.

The Squad Announcement

On January 3, the Indian cricket board revealed the squad for the ODI series against New Zealand, highlighting the return of key players. After missing out on the previous ODIs against South Africa due to an injury, Shreyas Iyer is back as vice-captain, contingent on his fitness. Mohammad Siraj, who has been a standout in recent matches, joins the squad alongside regulars like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.

Changes in the Line-Up

While the return of Siraj and Iyer strengthens the team, it has been disappointing for seasoned fast bowler Mohammad Shami, who continues to be sidelined. His last appearance for India was during the ICC Champions Trophy in 2025, where India lifted the trophy against New Zealand. However, upcoming talents Devdutt Padikkal and Ishan Kishan miss out despite showing dazzling performances in domestic cricket.

Controversial Omission of Ruturaj Gaikwad

The exclusion of Ruturaj Gaikwad, particularly after his impressive innings during the last ODI series against South Africa, is quite surprising. Gaikwad showcased his prowess with a century, and many fans had anticipated his selection for this series. Instead, he has been replaced by players who were not part of the previous squad.

Indian Squad for the ODI Series

The complete squad for India’s upcoming ODI series against New Zealand is as follows: Shubman Gill (Captain), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul (Wicketkeeper), Shreyas Iyer (Vice-captain*), Washington Sundar, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammad Siraj, Harshit Rana, Prasidh Krishna, Kuldeep Yadav, Rishabh Pant (Wicketkeeper), Nitish Kumar Reddy, Arshdeep Singh, and Yashasvi Jaiswal.

Upcoming Matches Schedule

The ODI series against New Zealand is set to unfold as follows:

• January 11 – 1st ODI, Vadodara
• January 14 – 2nd ODI, Rajkot
• January 18 – 3rd ODI, Indore

Following the ODIs, the T20 series will commence with matches scheduled on:

• January 21 – 1st T20, Nagpur
• January 23 – 2nd T20, Raipur
• January 25 – 3rd T20, Guwahati
• January 28 – 4th T20, Visakhapatnam
• January 31 – 5th T20, Thiruvananthapuram

Key Player Changes in India’s ODI Squad for New Zealand Series